The Dog That Changed Everything: How Bolt Helped a Veteran Reclaim His Life

After surviving a rocket-propelled grenade attack in Afghanistan, Chris Enget returned home to a new battle—one with PTSD, anxiety, and the daily challenge of reintegrating into civilian life. But everything began to change the day Bolt, a specially trained service dog, entered his life—on the very anniversary of the attack that nearly killed him. In this moving episode of American Potential , host David From sits down with Chris, now the Education Director for Concerned Veterans for America, to share how Bolt has helped him regain confidence, navigate large crowds, and manage hypervigilance that once made daily life feel impossible. Chris explains how service dogs like Bolt are transforming the lives of veterans—helping them reconnect with society, reduce isolation, and find a renewed sense of independence. He also addresses common misconceptions about service animals and the challenges veterans face in accessing them through the current healthcare system. This isn’t just a story about a veteran and a dog—it’s about resilience, healing, and the potential every American has when they’re supported with the right tools.