PTSD service dogs can help to strengthen overall family ties. The dog often gave the family more and new opportunities for the family to spend time together, often with activities involving the service dog such as going on walks. The service dog also can create a warm, and positive environment within the home. They offer affection to members of the family, they comfort family members other than the veteran, and they are protective of everyone in the family. They also help the family to come together as one, often even being considered to be a part of the family by the human members. With their service dog, the family can reestablish a new sense of happiness and normalcy.