How Wiseguy Actor Ken Wahl Helps Kittens Help Veterans
Almost immediately after suffering from a fractured vertebra in his neck, Wiseguy actor Ken Wahl had to retire from acting. His pain was severe, and he became depressed. It was a kitten who helped get him back on his feet.
While Ken’s injury is chronic, his depression has lifted, and he has turned his attention to helping others—mainly veterans who suffer from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). His outspokenness on issues that are close to his heart—helping animals and those who serve in the military—has captured the attention of NATO Brigadier General John E. Michel.
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According to Ken, pairing veterans with service animals is a simple solution—and one that doesn’t have to be costly. Most service animals tend to be dogs. Ken, who grew up with dogs and cats, understands the healing power that cats have over people too. “Cats still have a stigma of being too feminine,” he explains. “That is so far from the truth. After I got hurt one of my cats would crawl up onto my chest. I called it purr therapy. The warmth from her was so relaxing that I was able to sleep.”
Ken would like to see shelter cats and dogs be trained as service and therapy animals. “The cost would be considerably less than raising purebreds,” he says. “Dogs are needed to help people get around. Cats should not be discounted; they really are great for people suffering from depression and PTSD. Cats can really lift the clouds.”
For more information about what Ken is up to, visit his Facebook page.
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