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My Journey To Get A Psd - Ptsd Service Dog

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Tbird

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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!

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Guest t�e�r�r�y�s�t�u�r�g�i�s

Terry, I have a 5 pound Pom/Shitzu mix. 5 pounds means small poop, a bag of high dollar dog food last for 3 months. He goes every where I go, when he gets tired I can carry him and he does not take up the whole bed. Been my life saver. His name is Sam, (Small Angry Mutt) the only Harley rider he likes is me.

The dogs we had prior to Sam was a pair of Chinese Shar Pei's. Had them for 13 years. When they passed I said, "no way will I get another dog'. Don't tell Sam, I don't want to hurt his feelings. Terry

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Loved it Carlie. I don't know what I would do without my Bootsie. 10 Pounds of love and devotion. When I'm having trouble sleeping she will curl up against my back, lick me on the ear. She knows. Boostsie is a mini-dokie. She never leaves my side. Good luck T-Bird. Once you get your dog, please make sure that it is trained appropriately. My Mom purchased a dog for her handicapped Grandson, with intention of getting the dog trained. Of coursed, they did not. Now, all they had was a 200 pound eating machine, and the couch became his home :biggrin:

Papa

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:) Thank you Carlie. I remember this song from old Doris Day movies when I was a kid, I watched the video and was surprised that I still remember most of the words. True so true, what will be, will be.

Tbird,

Click here :

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Well I'm going to be a mom :) Got the letter approving me for PSD dog. I'm so hopeful and happy. It can take up to a year to place you with a dog but I am approved and just waiting. This is a wonderful day and for it to happen on Independence Day weekend is a good sign I think.

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All my forms have been filed. .... Wish me luck.

Your new PTSD pooch, will be a lucky dog, Tbird.

Best wishes to you and your new found friend.

C.B.

Edited by Commander Bob
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