In Texas, veteran Mark Johnson and his service dog Bella have both secured roles at a local Lowe’s store. After serving three tours and sustaining injuries that forced him to leave the Air Force, Mark was in search of a job that would allow him to work alongside Bella, his loyal service dog. Fortunately, Lowe’s had just the opportunity for them.
“We were conducting interviews for an open position when Mark applied,” said store manager Lisa Carter in an interview with local news. “He arrived with Bella, and we knew right away they were the perfect fit.” Now, the duo can be seen assisting customers at the Abilene Lowe’s, where Bella’s friendly demeanor has made them a beloved presence. Customer Sarah Thompson shared a photo of them on social media, expressing her admiration: “I love this Lowe’s! Kudos to them for hiring both a veteran and his service dog!”
Mark is grateful for the opportunity to work again, having found it difficult to stay home. “I just can’t sit around,” he explained. The pair has been employed for two months and has been inseparable for a decade. They are currently training another service dog together. “Rather than relying on medication, Bella provides the support I need,” Mark stated.
The Importance of Service Dogs for Veterans
Emotional support and service dogs play a vital role for individuals with disabilities, particularly veterans dealing with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). PTSD can arise after traumatic experiences, which is often the case for returning soldiers. Research indicates that about 7-8% of the U.S. population will experience PTSD at some point, with veterans showing rates as high as 20% after serving in Iraq and Afghanistan.
It’s well documented that the bond between humans and dogs can trigger biological changes, such as increased levels of oxytocin, which promotes trust and reduces symptoms associated with PTSD. “Oxytocin helps in interpreting emotions and overcoming paranoia, providing a counterbalance to PTSD symptoms,” noted Dr. Emily Foster from the Canine Connection Institute, highlighting the significance of service animals.
Supporting Veterans in the Workplace
It’s commendable that Lowe’s has created an accommodating environment for Mark and Bella, and we hope that more companies will follow suit in hiring veterans with disabilities. They’ve made tremendous sacrifices for our country, and it’s our responsibility to support them in any way possible.
Additional Resources
For those interested in exploring home insemination options, check out our blog post on at-home intracervical insemination syringe kits for more information. Additionally, St. Albans offers expert insights into this subject. For excellent resources on pregnancy and home insemination, visit Womens Health.
Conclusion
In summary, Mark Johnson and his service dog Bella have found fulfilling work together at Lowe’s, highlighting the importance of hiring veterans with service animals. This partnership not only aids in Mark’s recovery but also enriches the workplace with their positive presence.