Management Guidance

Listen to the MWD handler! If a handler seeks guidance for his or her working dog due to abnormal, inappropriate, or change in behavior in the first 30 days after a traumatic event or combat action, the following steps are recommended:

- Annotate a complete history of behavior prior to the event (or create a behavioral timeline if a specific event was not observed), details surrounding the event, and a chronology and progression of the MWDs behavior after the event. It is highly recommended to forward this information to the overseeing veterinary clinical specialist (AOC 64F) with request for consultation with a military veterinary behaviorist.
- Direct the handler to immediately remove the dog from the triggering situation, if not already done.
- Upon approval from the supporting veterinary officer, provide an anxiolytic drug. Examples of primary medications and adjunctive medications are provided in Table 2.

NOTE: These medications should not be stopped abruptly. If giving daily for more than two weeks, a short weaning period is indicated. Please contact a military veterinary behaviorist if you need additional guidance.

Table 2. MWD Medications and Dosages for Management of C-PTS and C-PTSD

- Direct the handler to provide support for the dog with social activity and play. Provide them with references and/or examples of appropriate enrichment activities. Common examples are provided in Table 3. The key for each activity is that the MWD must positively engage in the activity and show visible signs of enjoyment and/or relaxation (based on interpretation of canine body language).
- Direct the handler to provide work therapy by performing critical tasks in a safe, quiet area, free from distress.
- Recommend to the handler and the commander that the MWD not be used in the tactical environment until the dog has been evaluated by a Veterinary Corps Officer.
- If the MWD does not respond to treatment and is unable to return to work, coordinate evacuation or redeployment for further evaluation and care, based on the tactical situation and resource availability. MWDs with C-PTS should be classified as ROUTINE for evacuation planning purposes.

Table 3. Activity Options for Behavioral Treatment.