What are your thoughts on service/emotional support animals?
What are the perks of having an emotional support animal or a service animal? Any thoughts?
@gonzo6
Service animals and emotional support animals can be a great tool for people living with mental health conditions. I wish we had one here in our office!
It's important to know the difference and the laws pertaining to each. Check out this article about bringing service animals on airplanes.
https://www.nami.org/Blogs/NAMI-Blog/April-2017/A-Dog-Story-Negotiating-with-the-Airlines
@gonzo6 I have a cat who is coming to school with me this year. One thing that is hard for me while I'm at school is that I'm surrounded by peers, which can give me a lot of stress. My cat is hopefully going to give me an oulet to deal with that social stress, and it takes pressure off of my friends who (justifiably) can get a little worn out from my constant neuroticism. Although this wasn't a factor I considered intially, my cat will probably also be my alarm clock for the year as I have been waking up pretty reliably by 8am because she starts demanding her breakfast.
I think that emotional support animals are great! My cousin who struggles with Depression and drug abuse got an emotional support dog about two years ago. Whenever she gets lonely or upset, she usually takes her puppy out for a walk which seems to calm her down. She has told me that she now feels like if she is feeling down, she can cuddle up with her dog and talk out loud about what she's upset about. She has also been in and out of work so I think that taking care of a dog has brought some structure into her life, making her feel more in control.
@gonzo6 while I was hospitalized we would have what was known as a pet therapy session each week. Two therapy dogs would come to see myself and all the other patients, bringing happiness to those of us who were suffering. It was an amazing experience.
@philosophicalShip9444 That sounds so great. More hospitals and treatment centers should look into that for their patients.
@lovelyllama13 absolutely
@gonzo6 I honestly wish I could have one :(
@gonzo6 I have a kitten who helps out with my anxiety. She is the best thing that ever happened to me :)
@gonzo6 I think service/emotional support animals are great and love the idea! However, it's a controversial topic, and I've noticed that some people may have a negative reaction to service/support animals. Some people get very offended, annoyed, afraid, or an allergic reaction when exposed to animals in public places.
i think i'm rather nice.
no puppy, but.
Dogs are the most amazing animal. There's something about the connection they have with humans. My dog knows when I'm sick or emotionally struggling and stays beside me to offer quiet support. Love her!
