The Black Dog, a Metaphor
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
Black Dog Hunting's Four Pillars
Pillar ONE; Learning
Pillar FOUR; Cohesiveness
Pillar TWO; Catharsis
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.
Pillar TWO; Catharsis
Pillar FOUR; Cohesiveness
Pillar TWO; Catharsis
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.
Pillar THREE; Hope
Pillar FOUR; Cohesiveness
Pillar FOUR; Cohesiveness
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.
Pillar FOUR; Cohesiveness
Pillar FOUR; Cohesiveness
Pillar FOUR; Cohesiveness
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.