Physical Address
304 North Cardinal St.
Dorchester Center, MA 02124
From Heroism to Healing: Marine Veteran Anthony Longo’s Mission to Transform Lives with Service Dogs
Marine veteran Anthony Longo understands the profound inner struggles that many veterans grapple with long after their combat duties end. His own experiences have informed him about the healing power of companionship, particularly that of a loyal dog.
Longo, who served in Fallujah, Iraq, and received the Department of State’s Medal of Heroism for his service in Afghanistan, founded the Warriors Choice Foundation in 2016. The organization aims to assist fellow veterans on their path to recovery, emphasizing a personalized approach over standard treatment methods.
A Tailored Approach to Healing
In a recent interview, Longo shared that the foundation prioritizes individualized care for veterans, combining counseling, wellness retreats, and an innovative treatment modality known as cognitive K9 rehabilitation. This approach acknowledges that each veteran has unique needs and experiences.
The Warriors Choice K9 rehabilitation program specifically pairs veterans with Belgian Malinois service dogs. These dogs are meticulously bred and trained to aid individuals dealing with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and other mental health issues stemming from combat.
Making an Impact Since 2018
Since its inception, Warriors Choice has successfully assisted 72 veterans, matching 46 of them with service dogs. One of their notable successes includes a service dog named “Trump.” Longo described Trump as exceptional, highlighting the difficulty of parting with him when he was matched with a client. Trump is now a steadfast companion to a special operations veteran, illustrating the significant impact that these service dogs can have on their handlers.
According to Longo, the transformation he witnesses in veterans’ lives is profound. He reflects, “You see complete lives transferring 180 degrees into a new direction.” His appreciation for the bond between humans and dogs resonates deeply, as he notes that the connection helps veterans work through complex emotional issues.
The Personalized K9 Experience
Longo admits that while the K9 treatment program is not universally suitable for every veteran, he has observed impressive outcomes from its implementation. During the interview, Longo’s own canine companion, Bourbon, was by his side, illustrating the supportive role dogs play in the healing process.
He elaborates on the unique dynamic established between a veteran and a service dog, stating, “That connection adds a sense of responsibility that’s often beyond ourselves.” Despite moments of wanting to withdraw from the world, the need to care for a dog prompts veterans to engage with life on a more meaningful level.
Accountability and Healing through Companionship
Bourbon has not only contributed to Longo’s own healing journey but also laid the groundwork for the K9 program at Warriors Choice. Longo notes, “Bourbon has helped me gain a true understanding of what I needed to do for myself.” His experiences emphasize the importance of accountability in the healing process.
Longo acknowledges that tackling issues such as veteran PTSD and suicide feels daunting. Veterans are statistically 1.5 times more likely to die by suicide, underscoring the urgency of the mission. He reflects on the difficulties of addressing these challenges and the need for a strong support system.
A Call to Action for Fellow Veterans
“At the end of the day,” Longo concludes, “you’re here not for yourself, but for your brother.” His message is clear: veterans must help one another and provide opportunities for support. Understanding the struggles of combat experience fosters a unique bond among veterans.
Longo’s commitment to his fellow veterans is unwavering. “All you have to do is reach out, grab on, and do your best to assist,” he urges. The sense of community among veterans can significantly impact individuals seeking help, reminding them they are not alone in their journey.
Closing Thoughts on Healing Together
Longo’s work at Warriors Choice demonstrates the profound difference that service dogs can make in the lives of veterans coping with PTSD and other mental health issues. The foundation not only offers companionship through these dogs but also fosters a sense of purpose and accountability for veterans.
As Longo encourages all veterans struggling with mental health issues to reach out, he emphasizes that there are paths forward. The potential for healing and transformation is greater when veterans stand together, supporting each other through the journey of recovery. Warriors Choice Foundation epitomizes this mission and offers hope for a brighter future for those who served.
