Veteran Chris Buswell is the first to admit he doesn’t know where he would be without Golden Retriever Lynne.
She is constantly by his side and helps to ease some of the burdens of daily life.
It’s thanks to charity Bravehounds that Mr Buswell now has his reliable companion and those behind the project are hoping to be able to help many more veterans.
The Scottish military charity provides assistance dogs to veterans who have struggled with their mental health as a result of their service. They may have Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, depression and anxiety and some also have physical injuries.
The charity is looking for more Bravehound Buddies willing to look after dogs for up to four months before they go to a veteran.
Mr Buswell, 54, from Aberdeenshire, said having Lynne has changed his life for the better. He suffers from PTSD which can make it difficult to contemplate everyday tasks. And he and his wife Karla are also trying to cope with the loss of their son Angus, who took his own life at the age of 22.
“I was very low and had been suffering from depression and anxiety when my GP realised I needed help and suggested I should get in touch with Bravehound,” said Mr Buswell. “I needed help going into public or crowded places and even something as simple as going shopping or standing in a queue was difficult for me.
“The dogs are trained to give assistance or companionship and I needed assistance. Now I have Lynne she takes me to places that I would never have dreamed I could have managed.”
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