Can Animals Help Military Families Thrive?

Military families face unique challenges—from frequent relocations to supporting loved ones with PTSD—that can strain relationships and emotional well-being. While many interventions exist to support veterans, there is growing interest in how whole-family interventions might bolster resilience and well-being. One promising approach is animal-assisted interventions (AAI).

AAIs involve incorporating animals into therapeutic settings to aid physical or psychological healing. They have shown positive impacts on veterans but what about their families? This systematic review sought to answer that by evaluating existing literature on the effects of AAIs on military family members beyond the veteran.

Key Findings

The review analyzed nine studies, primarily from the U.S., focusing on service dogs and equine-assisted services (EAS). Key insights included:

• Equine-Assisted Services: Engaging with horses helped improve communication, reduced relationship issues, and alleviated symptoms like depression and PTSD. Horses seemed to act as catalysts for emotional connection and healing.
• Service Dogs: These animals, embedded in daily family life, were shown to support emotional bonds and foster resilience, though some spouses experienced increased caregiver burden.

Why It Matters

Military families face stressors like separation and reintegration challenges that non-military families may not. AAIs could offer these families unique benefits, strengthening their social and emotional fabric. However, the review also highlighted gaps in research, such as the lack of studies involving children and other animal types beyond horses and dogs.

Moving Forward

More comprehensive and varied studies are needed to understand AAIs' full potential for military families. The authors suggest future research should include diverse interventions and involve family members at all levels, not just veterans. This review shines a light on AAIs' potential as a powerful, family-centered tool to help military families build resilience and thrive amidst their challenges.