Abstract
The use of assistance or service dogs trained to perform tasks to ameliorate symptoms of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is becoming more widespread. However, the rationale for this intervention is currently largely based on anecdotal evidence. Pet dog ownership is very common in Western society and it is therefore likely that many individuals with PTSD are already dog owners, however, little attention has been paid to the potential therapeutic role of an ‘untrained’ dog. This exploratory study sought to gain insights into how individuals experience canine companionship in relation to their recovery. Four participants were interviewed and their accounts analysed using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA; Smith, Flowers & Larkin, 2009). Three super-ordinate themes were identified: ‘a protective partnership’; ‘beneficial behaviours: enabling a shift in focus’; and ‘role in reclaiming life’. A discussion of the findings in relation to extant literature is presented followed by a critique of the present study. Recommendations for further research are also made and implications for clinical practice are explored.