Before Hank Ford, 54, was matched with his service dog, he spent the majority of his life in bed. The Army and Marine veteran of over 20 years was in a “dark spot” while struggling with depression and PTSD, with little motivation to even leave the house.
Hank Ford during his time in the US ArmyImage via Hank Ford
However, everything changed in 2023 when Hank met Tommy, his new service dog, and Tommy’s trainer, Amy Bernard from Dogs, Inc. Not only would Tommy help shine a light during Hank’s darkest times, but he would also save his life in the most unexpected way.
Service Dogs Save Lives
Hank’s journey to meeting Tommy had several twists and turns until he met the service dog experts at Dogs, Inc. (formerly Southeastern Guide Dogs). Although the VA encouraged him to consider a service dog, the program lacked the resources to connect him with one. Instead, he found the Wounded Warrior Project, which connected him with Dogs, Inc.
Related: Hard-Working Service Dog Alerts Mom to Little Boy’s Low Blood Sugar From the Other Side of the House
“They flew out here to my home in Colorado to learn more about my lifestyle,” Hank explains, “what I was looking for in a dog, and what type of dog personality would be the best match for me.”
When he was matched with a young Yellow Labrador named Tommy, the dog and his trainer, Amy Bernard, spent a week helping him settle in. Dogs Inc. trainers stay in contact with their dogs’ new families, so service dog recipients have an entire support network to go along with their new furry friend.
Yellow Lab puppy Tommy graduating puppy school (L); Tommy wearing his service dog vest (R)Images via Scott and Mary Sitton/Dogs Inc
Tommy is trained to help Hank manage the symptoms of depression and PTSD, whether they’re at home, at work, on the golf course, or anywhere else. He can help create a barrier when other people get too close to Hank, or he can use pressure therapy to remind his nervous dad that everything is alright.
Hank Ford and Yellow Labrador TommyImage via Dogs, Inc.
Tommy’s Life-Saving Actions
One morning, however, Tommy went above and beyond his call of duty when he sensed something was wrong with his dad. The service dog never wakes up in the middle of the night, but he frantically woke Hank up by pawing at his chest.
“I stood up and went to the back door to let him out, but he wouldn’t go,” the veteran shared. “Instead, he started jumping at me and pawing at my chest and nose, booping my chest. I started to notice my heart was beating out of control. I took my pulse and blood pressure, and it was 150 over 115, and my heart rate was 171.”
Hank Ford and Yellow Labrador service dog Tommy in a golf cartImage via Dogs, Inc.
When Hank called the VA for advice, he was told he was reading the blood pressure cuff wrong. Luckily, he trusted his (and his dog’s) instincts and drove himself to the hospital. He was instantly admitted and diagnosed with a type of irregular heartbeat called atrial fibrillation, which required having his heart shocked back into its correct rhythm.
“The doctors told me if Tommy hadn’t woken me up, it’s likely that I would have had a massive stroke and might never have woken up at all.”
Service Dogs For Veterans
After Tommy’s quick thinking helped alert his dad to a life-threatening problem, Hank (who is now in better health) feels passionately about sharing his story. He hopes to encourage other veterans to consider applying for a service dog, not only for the dog’s life-changing skills, but for their unwavering loyalty and love.
Hank Ford and Tommy the Yellow Lab sitting in the grassImage via Dogs, Inc.
“There can be a stigma attached to having a service dog. Veterans think that people will look at you differently, and they do, but it’s really in the best way possible. I want veterans to know that help is out there.”
Although some veterans think a service dog isn’t financially feasible, Hank wants others to know it’s completely free. Dogs, Inc. provides the service dog, training, and all necessary travel at no cost to the recipient. Even the costs of food and vet bills are covered!
Every service dog is just as unique and special as the person they’re matched with, and there’s almost no limit to the kinds of tasks they can do. They can be the perfect support for a veteran, whether they’re offering a helping paw or alerting their parent to an emergency. Tommy is the perfect proof!
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This story was originally reported by PetHelpful on Nov 14, 2025, where it first appeared in the Pet News section. Add PetHelpful as a Preferred Source by clicking here.