Rey is a rescue dog who supports his human partner, Jack, with the challenges of post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). 

What is striking is the reciprocity that defines this partnership, in which each is helping the other. 

There are many practical tasks that a PTSD service dog is trained to help its owner with day to day life However, it's the psychological impact that we explore in this episode.

Owner Jack Billington says that of all the therapies and help he has accessed for his PTSD, Rey has been by far the most effective. He shares some of the nuances of the partnership with Kate Fairweather sitting in Petersfield's Market Square. 

A big thank you to Jack for coming onto the show and his openness in explaining the emotional and social aspects of his life, to which Rey has made such a difference.

If you would like to know more about PTSD assistance dogs, Service Dogs UK is a great place to start. 

Connected episodes on assistance dogs

• Duke, the PTSD service dog, (also trained by Service Dogs UK) 
• Mika, the well being and trauma support dog in the Metropolitan Police 
• By your side: navigating life with a guide dog over time
• Ralph, the owner-trained, multi-tasking assistance dog - perfect for a Rogate teenager
• Darcey, the Canine Partner: an assistance dog relationship in full bloom
• Benjy, the trainee guide dog's first five weeks on the job
• Daisy, the autism assistance dog - practical, psychological and emotional support

Do you work your dog?

Or perhaps you know someone else who does and might like to come on the show?  I love to hear about all and any working dogs - the more varied, the better! 

Get in touch with me, Kate, via team@shineradio.uk.

Find more dogs with interesting jobs. 

© & ℗ Kate Fairweather, 2026