SERVES!
Listen in as Dr. Maggie O’Haire takes us on an inspiring deep dive into the transformative power of service dogs for veterans with PTSD. Dr. O’Haire’s groundbreaking Service Dog and Veteran Experiences Study (SERVES) research project at the University of Arizona is the first national, randomized clinical trial to scientifically measure the medical benefits of service dogs compared to anecdotal beliefs. Dr. O’Haire’s work is proving what many have long believed—service dogs are more than companions; they are essential partners in healing, helping veterans reclaim their independence, confidence, and peace of mind. This episode is a must-listen for anyone who believes in the extraordinary power of the human-animal bond!
Listen to Episode #191 Now:
BIO:
About Maggie O’Haire, PhD
Dr. Maggie O’Haire is an internationally recognized Fulbright Scholar and Associate Dean for Research at the University of Arizona College of Veterinary Medicine, where she also serves as a Professor. She earned her BA in Psychology from Vassar College and her PhD from The University of Queensland, Australia.
Dr. O'Haire's research explores the profound ways humans interact with animals, focusing on the human-animal bond. She has secured over $17 million in research funding and authored over 70 peer-reviewed publications, accumulating over 4,300 citations. Her work has been presented at over 250 national and international conferences, earning 18 prestigious research awards. Dr. O’Haire is a dedicated mentor, guiding over 90 graduate and undergraduate students whose work has garnered over 30 national and international awards.
Her research has gained significant media attention, reaching an audience of over 5 billion people through outlets like The Wall Street Journal, NPR, The New York Times, and CNN. In 2023, Dr. O’Haire was honored as a University of Arizona Woman of Impact.
About O’Haire Lab
The Organization for Human-Animal Interaction Research and Education (OHAIRE) is a research group led by Dr. Maggie O'Haire. It includes national and international collaborators, students, and community members working together to conduct rigorous scientific research on the unique and pervasive effects of interacting with animals.
About the SERVES Study
The goal of the SERvice dog and Veteran Experiences Study is to evaluate how service dogs may impact veterans with PTSD and, if applicable, their families.
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