ptsd My Journey To Get A Psd - Ptsd Service Dog

[Tbird]

As some of you may know my sweet little pug Etta James passed away Sept 29, 2010. It's been a difficult mourning process for me and as the immobilizing grief started to ease I felt a deep loneliness. I thought about another dog, however I'm not at the point in my life where a puppy is a good solution for me nor is a shelter dog.

I thought a lot about my little Etta and began to realize I needed not just a pet but also a partner who could help me with my PTSD. Looking back over the years I could see how my Etta helped me do that from nightmares to strange noises she was always there to reassure me and just seemed to naturally learn when she needed to clown and when she needed to cuddle. I thought about how unlikely it would be to find another dog like that.

However, not wanting to give up I started researching breeds and came across information on service dogs for veterans with PTSD, I read a bunch and watched a lot of videos. I talked to my psychologist and to my psychiatrist about it, both agreed it would be good for me. I called the VA to find out about it, I looked on the internet, I had a bit of a hard time finding information on anything in my area.

With some luck I found a place in my area that does train PTSD service dogs, I called my PTSD clinic nurse manager and she had heard of the organization and they had a good reputation. So I took a deep breath and called them, they were very helpful and kind. I completed my application and mailed it in yesterday. So we will see what happens. My psychiatrist has to fax them a form confirming I have a diagnosis of PTSD and hopefully they will do that sooner rather than later. The application process takes time, I've completed the first step. If my application is accepted then they will schedule a home visit. When a dog is a available I must attend a two week training session which is to train me on how to work with the dog and to develop a bond between me and my new best friend.

If you want to read about the organization that I went through their website is here http://supportdogs.org/ If you want to watch some videos about PTSD dogs you can find some here http://ow.ly/4bz6n

I'll post back here to let you know whether my application is accepted or not. Wish me luck!

[Tbird]

Need to clarify a few things. There may be some confusion on how I got my service dog. The VA was not involved in any way in helping me obtain my service dog. My American Legion Service Officer gave me the name of the Non Profit Support Dogs, Inc to me. I did have to have my doctors write letters in support of it, however they did not prescribe it, nor was it paid for by the VA. The VA does not cover any veterinary costs as they would for guide dogs for the blind and hearing dogs for the deaf. My dog was sponsored and paid for by the Boeing Corporation, they sponsored two PTSD dogs for veterans this year through Support Dogs, Inc. and I truly cannot thank them enough. My equipment for the dog was paid for by a fund started by Amvets, Ladies Auxiliary, and Sons of Post #55, and I thank them from the bottom of my heart.

From some emails I received I saw there was a little confusion in thinking the VA provided this for me and I wanted to clear that up.

[john999]

Wonderful events in your life T-bird!

[Aletta]

Animals are helpful in every way. I read where there are horse farms even that help people with PTSD. I know my hubby's dogs has helped him. He still misses his horses.

Thanks for sharing your journey.. It was interesting to read.

Edited March 9, 2013 by Aletta

[carolw06]

Knowing where to help, is what is most difficult, not knowing how to help.

[Tbird]

A picture is worth a thousand words. Do Service Dogs Help PTSD Veterans?

Now here is something I thought would never ever happen again in my life.

[Aletta]

Great pic of the two of you.. I didn't realize you were in MO.. With the weather being warmer, sometimes, I'm sure Cinder and you will be out and about more and more..