Other Benefits Of Having A Service Pet
Mobility impaired fibromyalgia patients can greatly benefit from service pets. With proper training, these dogs can run errands, such as switching lights on and off, retrieve medicine and open doors etc. Traditionally, Labrador and Golden Retrievers are the common service dog breeds. However, these days, any type of dog having the right temperament can become one after training. In fact, some use cats and other pets to provide services for them.
Some Considerations
Despite the benefits, getting a pet is a huge responsibility. Although they are trained as service dogs to provide care, they do need attention and love as most pets do. Furthermore, it may take close to a year for your dog to be entirely trained and adapted into your family and environment. You should also consider the amount of time you have for your dog, your work schedule and most importantly, the cost of having and maintaining a pet. Nevertheless, if you provide your dog with a loving home, the reward is endless.
Approach a local animal shelter to help you in looking for a service pet to help you manage your condition. They may also direct you to some animal assistance organizations.
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If I didn’t have my wee dog I don’t know what id do. He makes me get up and cook dinner for us both otherwise I would be lying in bed alday.i need to take care off him. And he gets me to play with him . Just throwing a ball bringing it back and putting it into my hand.. yes a dog is great for relaxing..
Any way to have a dog you already own made into a service dog?
Carolyn,
Yes, you can. It takes 1-2 years to fully train your dog. Find a service dog training provider in your location. They will be able to provide more information.
I think this article should include cats too because mine have helped me with my pain and stress because when I look into their eyes or hear their meow my heart just melts!!
I agree. My cat knows when I am hurting, and she crawls into bed with me and gives me lots ofkisses. She also makes sure I maintain an appropriate feeding time for both her and me. We have been together for 10 years and I hope we will be together for many more.I recently went away for a 2 week vacation without her (first time) and she suffered such separation anxiety that I had to take her to a vet. Now when I go away,my son comes home to stay with her so there are no problems.It was strange the first time that she reacted so badly as she stayed with a friend who she has known for years,but it was not at her own home. Cats can be very emotional too, not justdogs.
Colleen and Cheryl,
Yes, pet therapy is not limited to dogs, although it is the more common service pet choice. Some do use cats and other pets to provide physical and emotional support too.
My little dog gives me a reason to get up in a morning because I know he needs me to care for him. In return he gives me so much love and knows when I am feeling down he looks at me with his big brown eyes as if to say I’ll look after you.
He is my soul mate.
I had a cat that would sleep curled up next to my lower back, when he purred his body would vibrate softly, that plus his body heat would feel so nice and it would relieve my tense muscles. Now I have a small dog. The unconditional love of a pet helps relieve the depression and stress, and also makes me get up and walk him.