Steven and Guppy
Steven and Guppy’s story is a testament to the incredible bond between humans and service animals. Guppy offered Steven not just assistance with day-to-day tasks, but a renewed sense of purpose, safety, and confidence. Together, they demonstrate how a service dog can profoundly impact someone’s life, helping them move from merely surviving to truly living. Their connection highlights the importance of seeking help when needed and the life-changing support a service dog can provide.
How has your life changed since receiving your service dog?
Since receiving my service dog Guppy from USVSD, my life has changed dramatically. She is my battle buddy and goes wherever I go. I suffer from multiple injuries, both physical and mental. While the world can often see the physical injuries when I’m out in public, it’s the mental injuries that are sometimes the real silent killers. I say “silent” because they happen behind closed doors, often invisible to others.
There have been many times when I sat alone in a dark room for hours, sometimes days. But since Guppy came into my life, I’ve been able to reengage with the world. I feel a renewed sense of confidence knowing that my loyal battle buddy is always by my side. With her support, I’ve started to reconnect with society, step by step.
What is one thing you are able to do now that you couldn’t before receiving your dog? One thing I’m able to do now that I couldn’t before receiving Guppy is go out into public spaces without being overwhelmed by anxiety or fear. Simple tasks like walking through a crowded store, standing in line, or eating at a restaurant used to feel unbearable. But now, with Guppy by my side, I feel grounded, safe, and supported.
It’s not just about mobility or task assistance, it’s about reclaiming my life. Guppy has given me the confidence to feel safe in society again, and that has made all the difference.
Describe your daily life with your service dog?
My daily life with Guppy is completely different than it used to be, she’s not just a service dog, she’s my constant companion, my protector, and my peace. From the moment I wake up, Guppy is right there, ready to help me start the day. Whether it’s assisting with physical tasks or sensing when my anxiety is rising, she’s always tuned in to what I need, often before I even realize it myself. She helps keep me grounded in situations that used to trigger panic or isolation. Whether we’re going out to run errands, attending appointments, or just walking through the neighborhood, I know I’m not alone. Guppy watches my back, literally and emotionally. Her presence allows me to be more present in life, rather than constantly on high alert.
At home, she provides comfort on tough days when I struggle mentally. She senses when I need space or when I need her close. She’s become a part of my routine, my support system, and honestly, a huge part of my healing. Every day with Guppy is a reminder that I’m not fighting my battles alone.
What affect has your service dog had on the relationships in your life?
Guppy has had a profound impact on the relationships in my life, especially with my wife. Before Guppy, there were times when my anxiety and physical challenges made it hard for me to fully connect with those around me. I often withdrew, which created distance in my relationships, even with the people I love most. But
Guppy has helped bridge that gap. She’s given me a sense of stability and peace that’s allowed me to be more emotionally available and present. My wife has noticed the change the most. She tells me I seem lighter, more at ease, and more engaged in life.
Guppy has helped carry some of the invisible weight I used to bear alone, and that’s taken a lot of pressure off our relationship too. And of course, there’s a funny side to it all. When Amazon packages arrive for Guppy, she gets so excited, sometimes even more than my wife does! It’s become this sweet, funny routine. My wife will joke, “Guess I’ve been replaced,” but the truth is, she’s just as grateful for Guppy as I am. She sees how much Guppy has helped me, and that has brought us even closer together.
What is one thing you would tell a fellow veteran that was considering a service dog?
One thing I would tell a fellow veteran considering a service dog is this: don’t wait. If you’re struggling, whether it’s with physical injuries, PTSD, anxiety, or simply feeling disconnected from the world, a service dog can be life-changing. I know what it feels like to carry invisible wounds and to live in survival mode. My service dog, Guppy, didn’t just help with tasks; she gave me my life back. Having a battle buddy like Guppy by my side has helped me face the world again with confidence, calm, and a sense of safety I hadn’t felt in years. You’re not weak for needing help, and you’re definitely not alone. A service dog doesn’t fix everything, but they can be the bridge between surviving and truly living again.