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Children, Parents, or Relatives with BPD => Son, Daughter or Son/Daughter In-law with BPD => Topic started by: durbanpoison888 on August 01, 2020, 06:34:06 PM



Title: Emotional Support Animal
Post by: durbanpoison888 on August 01, 2020, 06:34:06 PM
I was wondering if anyone has had an emotional support animal for bpd and how helpful they think it is. I am considering one for my child with bpd.


Title: Re: Emotional Support Animal
Post by: Sancho on August 02, 2020, 04:14:31 AM
We have a cat and a dog and bpdd seems to seek out the cat to pat and cuddle. The dog knows when an angry outburst is about to happen - and starts to shake all over. The shaking makes bpdd even more angry and she puts her out of her room or shouts at her. The dog comes and sits on my feet.
The cat isn't affected at all by the outbursts - just does her own thing and enjoys sleeping on bpdd's bed etc. Not sure if this is helpful.


Title: Re: Emotional Support Animal
Post by: wendydarling on August 02, 2020, 08:30:36 AM
Hi  durbanpoison888  :hi:

Great question, one that's often asked here.  My adult daughter homed an abandoned kitten back in 2016 when she was very ill. Hope (the cat) has provided her much comfort and joy during the most difficult of times.

I think I'd start with does your child want a pet? How old is your child?

Sancho that's really interesting, the point that some animals are sensitive be taken into account when a choice is made... my sister had a Collie who turned into a nervous wreck when the children started arriving and had to be re-homed.

WDx


Title: Re: Emotional Support Animal
Post by: Swimmy55 on August 04, 2020, 09:03:45 AM
Good question. 
I had 2 cats when my adult son came back home to live with me.  He bonded with one of them and he did top up their food dishes  during the day if they were empty when I was at work.  He did not deal with the litter boxes at all.   It also depends on how much the kid is willing to help with the care ( or not) and if you are ok with that. 


Title: Re: Emotional Support Animal
Post by: wendydarling on August 05, 2020, 05:58:40 AM
We had Charlie the cat from DD being 8 -24yrs old, so yes like you Swimmy we split the care.

As an adult I made clear her choice of a new pet was her responsibility financially ~food,  insurance, jabs, feeding etc and it's worked out. It helps to agree who's responsible for what right from the start whether, child, teen or adult child. While that sounds obvious, clarity is everything.

I've had requests for a second cat. Nope. That's something for you to look forward to when you have your own home.  :)