PITTSBURGH, Oct. 26, 2015 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Heroes come in all shapes and sizes, thanks to K9s For Warriors and Michael Baker International.
Michael Baker International, a global leader in engineering, consulting, planning and technical and professional services, sponsored the specialized six-month training for a dog aptly named "Baker" for K9s For Warriors, an organization that teaches rescue dogs to work with veterans coping with Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and other psychological challenges associated with military service. Michael Baker representatives were on hand at the recent ceremony when Baker "graduated" after completing his six months of training to serve his warrior, Brian. In addition to his specialized training, Baker worked with Brian for three weeks at K9s For Warriors headquarters to ensure they were an ideal match.
"We're grateful for the service and sacrifice made by our nation's veterans and we are honored to lend our support to K9s For Warriors," said Nicholas P. Gross, Michael Baker's chief operating officer, Global Services, and liaison to K9s for Warriors. "As we approach Veterans Day, it brings into focus how K9s For Warriors exemplifies what it means to make a difference in the lives of our veterans and their families. We couldn't be more proud of Baker for graduating to serve one of our heroes."
"I can't thank Michael Baker International enough for sponsoring my new battle buddy, Baker," Brian said. "Baker and I are getting a new start on life together and I'm incredibly excited and grateful."
Founded in 2011, K9s For Warriors provides service canines to U.S. military personnel suffering from PTSD, traumatic brain injury and/or military sexual trauma as a result of military service post 9/11. The organization's goal is to empower veterans to return to civilian life with dignity and independence. The program is offered at no cost to the veteran. Since its inception the organization has paired more than 190 trained rescue dogs with military service men and women.
According to K9s For Warriors, within six months of being matched with a dog, 86 percent of warriors reduce their PTSD-related medication; 82 percent of warriors report having fewer suicidal thoughts and/or are better able to handle their suicidal thoughts; and 86 percent spend more time with their families.
About Michael Baker International
Michael Baker International is a leading global provider of engineering and consulting services, which include planning, architectural, environmental, construction, program management, and full life-cycle support services as well as information technology and communications services and solutions. The company provides its comprehensive range of services and solutions in support of U.S. federal, state, and municipal governments, foreign allied governments, and a wide range of commercial clients. Michael Baker International has more than 6,000 employees in more than 90 locations across the U.S. and internationally. To learn more visit www.mbakerintl.com.
About K9s For Warriors
Founded in 2011 as a 501(c) 3 organization by Shari Duval, K9s For Warriors is dedicated to providing service canines to our warriors suffering from Post-traumatic Stress Disability, traumatic brain injury and/or military sexual trauma as a result of military service post 9/11. Our goal is to give a new leash on life to rescue dogs and military heroes, empowering warriors to return to civilian life with dignity and independence.