Service Dogs

[Rosetab]

I am just wondering if there are any other families that have used therapy dogs as therapy. My 17 year old daughter was recently diagnosed with BPD and has been researching treatments and one big one is the use of a therapy dog to assist with encouraging her to wake in the morning, remind her of her medication, assist with sensing when she is feeling anxiety or if she has critical thoughts that it will push a panic button.

Thank you  

Our objective is to better understand the struggles our child faces and to learn the skills to improve our relationship and provide a supportive environment and also improve on our own emotional responses, attitudes and effectiveness as a family leaders

[Bright Day Mom]

Our family doesn't have experience with a service dog, but with an ESA (emotional support animal).  Daisy has been an integral part of our dd's day to day and helped her thru the toughest days.  The ESA can fly and also help with housing whether it be in a college setting or apartment one day.  Daisy helps her stay calm, reduces anxiety and thankfully wake up in the morning. 

Our family also rescued another dog last summer who we have been in training with, first beginner puppy and good citizen and this year therapy dog. We had to wait because they don't begin this specific training until they are at least 1.  We are planning for both my d and myself, mom, do become his handler.  Once completed with course work / training, we will begin giving back to our community by visiting hospitals, nursing homes and maybe even the local library to help with children who have difficulty reading.   We hope this provides our dd with purpose and a sense of responsibility.

Good luck with your doggy future, shelters are full of good candidates.