The "Black Dog" is a metaphor used globally to promote mental health, was made famous by Sir Winston Churchill during World War II, and is used by us to describe our mission of supporting Veteran Mental Health through the sport of Waterfowl.
With work, many Veterans find the ability to "heel" the black dog. A command in dog training where the dog moves in a controlled manner, by your side. Never in front or behind, but in-step with you and under your control.
Connecting and Healing Veterans ~ Peer-based Mentoring and Counseling ~ Through Waterfowl
#HeelTheBlackDog
Group therapy provides a unique opportunity to learn about oneself and one's interactions with others. Through feedback and observation, individuals can gain insights into their relationship patterns and develop more effective social skills. Veterans participate in various workshops, Periods Of Instruction (POI), a terminology widely used
Group therapy provides a unique opportunity to learn about oneself and one's interactions with others. Through feedback and observation, individuals can gain insights into their relationship patterns and develop more effective social skills. Veterans participate in various workshops, Periods Of Instruction (POI), a terminology widely used in Military Service. In these workshops they learn about themselves, other Veterans and take with them various Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSA’s) from industry leaders and professionals in the Waterfowl and Veteran community.
The safe and supportive environment of a group allows individuals to express pent-up emotions and release past traumas. This cathartic experience can be incredibly healing and contribute to a sense of relief and emotional release.
Veterans are sequestered over three (3) days at one of the premier Waterfowl lodges in the country. They are p
The safe and supportive environment of a group allows individuals to express pent-up emotions and release past traumas. This cathartic experience can be incredibly healing and contribute to a sense of relief and emotional release.
Veterans are sequestered over three (3) days at one of the premier Waterfowl lodges in the country. They are provided with five-star accommodation, chef prepared meals, and industry-leading service. This environment requires nothing of the Veteran and allows them a place of emotional release.
Witnessing the progress and recovery of other group members can instill a sense of hope and optimism in individuals who may be struggling. Seeing that others have overcome similar challenges can inspire belief in one's own ability to heal and change. Peer-based mentoring and counseling are at the core of what we do. Veterans; seeing their
Witnessing the progress and recovery of other group members can instill a sense of hope and optimism in individuals who may be struggling. Seeing that others have overcome similar challenges can inspire belief in one's own ability to heal and change. Peer-based mentoring and counseling are at the core of what we do. Veterans; seeing their peers, learning alongside their peers, spending time with their peers, and hearing how their peers have overcome similar challenges can provide the strongest and most effective form of hope and opportunity for mental health healing.
A strong sense of belonging and acceptance within the group is essential for effective therapy. When members feel connected and supported, they are more likely to participate actively, take risks, and experience positive change. Like other peer groups in society, Veterans better connect and open themselves when surrounded by those who hav
A strong sense of belonging and acceptance within the group is essential for effective therapy. When members feel connected and supported, they are more likely to participate actively, take risks, and experience positive change. Like other peer groups in society, Veterans better connect and open themselves when surrounded by those who have the same memories, experiences, and knowledge. At the end of our three (3) day program, Veterans leave with a new and reinvigorated sense of connection and healing. We use “post hunt” feedback and touchback loops as Key Performance Indicators (KPI’s) of our overall success.
“I haven’t done a lot of things with other veterans since I got out, so it was great to be able to feel the camaraderie again and talk about all the stuff that only other vets get. Black Dog Hunting hosted a first-class trip, and I felt incredibly welcomed by the whole town of Friday Harbor and everyone else involved. I definitely recommend this experience to any other vets that are looking for a way to reconnect.”
James, Marine Veteran
“When I come across a vet it is this instant friendship, shared language and an easy time talking story that I have found with no other group. Being able to be out in nature with a group of vets is seriously something I hope all vets can do at least once in their lifetime. It is a reminder to breathe, enjoy nature and an better reminder that you are not alone. No matter where you are you will always be apart of a brotherhood/sisterhood that never dies.”
Brandee, Navy Veteran
So this is the nicest duck "camp" I'll ever stay at. Hunting this opening weekend with Black Dog Hunting in Oklahoma at FOWLCO with a great group of veterans. Spent Veteran's Day weekend at a premier waterfowling destination with a group of veterans. Overall it was an amazing experience & created wonderful memories.
Eric, Air Force Veteran
Great and awesome group of men. Heard lots of great stories and had a great hunt. Thank you to Fowl Co for their contributions of time, effort and resources. Again can't say enough about them.
Clint, Army Veteran
Unbelievable weekend with Black Dog Hunting & FowlCo Outfitters. It was an honor to hunt with such a great group of guys. Thank you to Black Dog Hunting, JD & Josh for such an incredible experience. #oklahomaducks #veteranshunt
Nate, Army Veteran
Great time sponsored by Black Dog with Jared and Du South Fishing, made the day great for all of us who went on this trip.
Bobby, Air Force Veteran
Thank you, Josh, and to Andy, and to Earthbox, for such an awesome experience. It was a trip of a lifetime for me. It was not only a bucket list item fulfilled, the trip also helped me in dealing with a very personal issue that, in the beginning of the trip, actually had me more anxious than excited to be there. I shared some of this with the other vets during a group discussion we had on the back of Andy’s boat - let’s just say that for me the trip was victorious in more ways than one. I’m forever grateful.
Mark, Army/Marine Veteran
My recent experience during a hunting trip with Black Dog Hunting was special in many ways. The opportunity to spend time with a group of veterans who share common experiences and interests in a setting like Honey Brake Lodge is something I’ll never forget. Being the “elder statesman” of the group, it had been awhile since I had the opportunity to spend time with some younger veterans who had transitioned in the past few years. We had a number of wonderful discussions about our military service and our experiences since leaving the military. I feel like we all benefitted from the opportunity to spend time together in such a special setting. Thank you Black Dog Hunting and all the vets who made the trip.
Roy, Air Force & Navy Veteran
Happiness is a good group of guys in a duck blind! Huge thank you to Black Dog Hunting for organizing such amazing events. These weekends are near and dear to my heart. The amount of healing and brotherhood that is formed over a few days is unmeasurable. Thank you to all the gentlemen that made this weekend worth while.
Austin, Marine Veteran
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