ptsd Therapy Dog For Mst

[top]

I was wondering if anyone uses a therapy dog for their MST? Because of the anxiety, panic attacks, and other symptoms that go along with my PTSD/MST, I work from home. I have never been a "dog" person - I am a "cat" person; however, my daughter dropped off her 6-month old puppy with me last year and moved overseas.

I gradually got used to the dog - she's a mixed hound dog - extremely large and extremely friendly.

I now find that I am very dependent upon this dog. She follows me throughout the house and lays down by me as I work.

I am finding that she is extremely comforting to me. she alerts when someone comes to the door and seems to know when I am more depressed or anxious than usual.

I am finding that when I do have to leave the house, I don't feel comfortable unless she is with me.

My question is, will the VA recognize her as my therapy dog?

What do I have to do?

thank you in advance.

TOP

[carlie]

https://www.federalregister.gov/articles/2012/09/05/2012-21784/service-dogs

[Pete53]

Another way you may get it is use the ILP Independent Living Program in Voc Rehab. They are much more flexible than the VA but it is a journey. I suspect that eventually the VA will allow Service Dogs for MST and other mental disorders.

Good Luck

I have acquired and trained three dogs to assist me. You can even join associations that can help and also provide paperwork.

[top]

Thanks for the information. Carlie - I really appreciate the link you provided, it was informative.

[TrekJeff]

This is an old thread, but the question of service dogs comes up in many circles that I travel. There are many service dog groups out there that are designated for Veterans. For instance, in Michigan there is Stiggy's Dogs. The provide the service dog for the Vet at no cost. The dogs are generally resuces that have been evalusted to meet the temperment for a service dog. All that the Veteran needs to show is a signed form from a medical doctor showing the diagnosis of PTSD. Regardless of the source of the PTSD. So for those who have the same question, look around in your area by searching "service dogs for veterans" in your State.

[Navy4life]

We have an "emotional support dog" that the VA doctor signed a prescription and signed letter for us to have him. We registered him as an ESD and we currently have his ID badge and vest. He is allowed in our apartment w/o any pet fees and he can fly with us as long as we get permission in advance. He is also allowed at all hotels w/o any fees. He is a great companion for us!

[carlie]

We have an "emotional support dog" that the VA doctor signed a prescription and signed letter for us to have him. We registered him as an ESD and we currently have his ID badge and vest. He is allowed in our apartment w/o any pet fees and he can fly with us as long as we get permission in advance. He is also allowed at all hotels w/o any fees. He is a great companion for us!

That's great news.

Just as an FYI - VA no longer takes financial responsibility for service animals due to a

mental health condition.

From what I remember in the most recent change is that the service animal must be for

mobility, sight and or sound. Also- the VA placed very strict criteria to what companies / organization's,

can certify a service animal for VA financial responsibility purposes.

Under the right conditions and requirements being met for service animals, VA will take financial

responsibility for veterinarian care and food for the service animal.

Hope this helps a vet.

[Navy4life]

Correct Carlie;

The VA is not taking financial responsibility b/c he is not a Service Dog but rather an ESD. The cause is still just as important I believe. All the Vet has to do is contact their PCP and request that they allow the ESD for them.

We are truly grateful and our dog is wonderful, loving and so supportive to us in our time of need :)

[JillyJill]

Here's a good link that lists state and nationwide organizations: http://www.operationwearehere.com/MilitaryServiceDogs.html