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(09/03/2026) Researchers from the National Center for PTSD demonstrated that the presence of a service dog reduced physical stress responses to loud noises in Veterans with PTSD. Veterans in residential treatment for PTSD and participating in a service dog training program were exposed to loud, unpleasant sounds over four to six weekly sessions, with their service dogs being present half the time. Having the dog nearby led to smaller heart rate and sweating changes in Veterans with hyperarousal symptoms, suggesting the dogs had a passive calming effect. The service dogs also helped Veterans recover from and get used to the loud noises faster. The results suggested service dogs can help regulate physical stress levels in Veterans with PTSD in addition to calming emotional distress. (Psychophysiology, Aug. 27, 2026)