Liz Carmouche, a veteran and mixed martial arts (MMA) fighter, has spoken candidly about the significant role her service dog plays in her life, particularly as she prepares for impactful moments, such as fights. Ahead of her upcoming rematch against Jena Bishop, Carmouche shared insights into her experiences with her Labrador retriever, Gable, who has supported her in navigating the challenges that came with her military service.
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Carmouche, now 42 years old, did not initially recognise her need for a service dog until her wife suggested she adopt one. This decision has transformed her life significantly over the last decade. Gable, her six-year-old companion, has become an integral part of her pre-fight routine. “Whenever I’m feeling anxious before a big fight, she helps me get in the right headspace,” Carmouche explained. She noted that Gable often nudges her to settle down, providing an anchor during stressful moments.
The bond between Carmouche and Gable was highlighted during an event on 13 October, where they interacted with a puppy named Tillman, who is in training to become a service dog. The event, held in Chicago, was part of a collaboration among several organisations including PFL, GOVX, and America’s VetDogs. Carmouche hopes that showcasing these connections will raise awareness about the vital support that service dogs offer, particularly in addressing mental health challenges.
Carmouche’s journey began when she served in the U.S. Marine Corps from 2004 to 2009, during which she completed three tours in Iraq. Her experiences during these deployments brought numerous challenges, including being a female in a predominantly male environment as well as coping with the realities of combat. It wasn’t until years later that she started to understand the profound impact of her military experiences on her mental well-being.
In 2014, after meeting her partner Braelyn, who trains service dogs, Liz decided she wanted to engage with this community. Initially, she volunteered to help train dogs, unaware that her friend would eventually encourage her to consider adopting a service dog for herself. Following discussions with a psychologist, Carmouche embraced this idea, leading to the adoption of Gable. “I realised how much I had sheltered my life and closed myself off,” she admitted.
With Gable’s presence, Carmouche has rediscovered a sense of normalcy in her life. The pair enjoy long walks, which not only offer exercise but also a moment for her to regroup and connect with the outside world. “She allows me to live a regular life again,” Carmouche expressed, highlighting how Gable’s companionship has been transformative.
Now married, Carmouche and her wife Braelyn raise their ten-year-old son, Brandt, on a ten-acre farm in Gainesville, Florida, where Braelyn also trains service dogs for various needs, including aiding veterans and individuals with autism. Carmouche assists on the farm, though she humbly describes her role as more of a supporter, noting, “I am more of the cheerleader.”
Despite the hurdles she faces, Carmouche remains determined to instil resilience within herself and her family. As she mentioned, “Every day, I try and work on self-growth and emotional growth.” This pursuit extends beyond her athletic career, influencing her identity as a wife, mother, and individual.
As for her match against Bishop that would take place shortly thereafter, Carmouche was focused on what drives her: her family. She acknowledges that Brandt, her son, is both her strongest critic and motivator, urging her to perform at her best. She emphasises the importance of evolving in all aspects of her life as she strives for success inside and outside of the ring.
Although she did not prevail in the fight against Bishop, Carmouche’s determination remains unwavering. With Gable always by her side, she plans to continue moving forward, embracing both her personal and professional journeys, firmly rooted in the support of her family and the lessons learned from her faithful service dog.