Service Dogs

Ok...here is today's rant!!  Trainers of service dogs really need to consider a program to train dogs to aid people with panic attacks/agoraphobia.  As I've already stressed in my first post how much my dog has helped me get out of the house, this could be truly helpful to others who suffer from panic attacks/agoraphobia and quite possibly other mental health problems as well.

Perhaps there are a few trainers out there that already do this type of service dog training, however I've been unsuccessful in finding them.  I will continue my hunt for such trainers and will post their info once I find them. 

My dog, while not an official "service dog" has help me just by being with me when I go out.  Whether his presences gives my some kind of mental strength or just a distraction from my anxiety, I am able to travel much further from my home when he is with me.  Perhaps there is service dogs that are more like "companion pets" that aid people with their disabilities.  I'll try a search for "companion pets" and see if I have more success.

Now....businesses large and small, must be made aware of the laws regarding service dogs.  Most people have an idea of service dogs being for the blind only.  They need to be aware that these dogs also help people who suffer other types of illnesses.  Such as: diabetes, epilepsy and/or other types of seizures, phobias, cancer and other illnesses not outwardly apparent.  Just because we don't walk with a cane and sunglasses or are not in a wheelchair doesn't mean we don't suffer from a disability.  Also, not all service dogs are the traditional Labradors commonly used as seeing eye dogs.  Service dogs can and do come in all shapes and sizes and service their owners with just as much aid as any other type of service dog. 

County health dept. officials should make a point of reminding businesses of the laws regarding service dogs.  I can tell from personal experiences that being approached by a store clerk/employee who is not educated on the laws regarding service dogs is a nightmare.  Being singled out and questioned in front of a store full of customers is an embarrassment that we shouldn't have to endure.  They must know that they are NOT allowed to ask what the nature of our disability is and we do NOT need to show any kind of paper work or license designating our dog as a service dog. 

Now to address the cost involved with getting a service dog.  This is a huge cost...as much as $2000!!!  People who are disabled, collecting social security disability simply cannot afford such an expense.  I know I can't.  While there are many who so generously volunteer their time to train a service dog, there are still many costs involved.  While many big pet food companies already donate monies to rescue animals perhaps some might be used in not only the rescue but to train these dogs to help the disabled.  There are many unwanted animals in shelters right now and these dogs can help so many people with an array of disabilities.  I understand that some breeds are better suited for certain types of disabilities, but still even a kitty for a senior citizen who lives alone could do so much for them. 

OK...I've ranted alot today so I'll step off my soap box and do some research into service dogs (or companion dogs) for the mentally ill.