Anyone have an emotional support animal?

[nmp1]

I'm curious and wondering if it has helped anyone to have a little companion be around when they a panic attack, anxiety. I know there are programs to train a dog to help you in those moments. Also whats an estimated amount it'll cost?

[Agora1]

nmp1, A service dog can be trained to help in any situation. I don't know the cost but do know you need a doctor's order. Keep us updated. I think it's a great idea.

[nmp1 in reply to Agora1]

I did som research but I'd feel guilty or shame if I did get a dog and got him certified to be a service animal since I don't have a physical illness or disability. I just love the idea that I could a companion and feel secure. I'd take a friend but honestly even being with friends or family makes me nervous sometimes. It's weird but when I'm anxious I don't like to be talked to, and I don't mean to be rude to them just in the moment I don't feel well and then I feel like being a b*tch lol.

[Agora1 in reply to nmp1]

Oh nmp1, it doesn't have to be a physical disability. Emotional issues count as well. I wanted to get a dog for my daughter who is anorexic and lives alone.

I have always favored German Shepherds and the last one I had for 13 years was my companion. No training, just a bond between us from the start. I didn't even know about service dogs then so it could just be an animal you connect with. Most animals have that extra something that senses when something is wrong.

As for being with a human (friend or family) I too feel uncomfortable since it tends to bring on more anxiety. You're not alone in feeling like that. x

[noemikahle]

I don't have a trained dog but my current puppy is therapy to me. He calms me down by snuggling when I am anxious and he forces me to go on walks when I really don't want to leave the house. Animals are supposed to help with activating the happy hormones and mine sure does

[nmp1 in reply to noemikahle]

I'm so glad to hear that, I really want a dog it's just my dad won't let me have one, he doesn't like how hairy they are. He doesn't know that I have GAD or begin to understand what I feel and need, we never grew up talking about our health. I just hope to one day finally find a little furry friend.

[noemikahle in reply to nmp1]

I have a poodle mix, he doesn't shed and he is very smart. He is also only 10 pounds, so very portable and cuddly.

[nmp1 in reply to noemikahle]

Awwww how cute!

[violetgenie]

Great point Noe!

I have a cat but I don't have to walk her so I don't have the forced to go outside aspect... such a good suggestion.

[NemoAbella]

Hi Hope you're feeling better Anyway, there was one time I got to watch a video about depression and anxiety online, were the one who gave him new hope everyday is his cat, likw he got something to look forward everyday; By that time I am thinking to get a support animal too, like another dog or cat; but actually I already have a dog but she's not that interactive, maybe just a tip, if you are planning to get a new pet, study the breed first before getting one Make sure they are interactive not lazy kind 😂 Like what I have now, Shih Tzu (Lazy kind)😊Hope you are okay.

[nmp1 in reply to NemoAbella]

Thank you I'm hoping to convince my dad to let me have a little guy. I have two ducks at the moment don't get me wrong I love em and they're cute, but they're not an animals that cuddle 😂

[NemoAbella in reply to nmp1]

Huh! I feel you! I got chicken before! Hehe I trained her like a dog 😂 Hope you are okay 😊 Lets try to stay positive 😊

[nmp1 in reply to NemoAbella]

Awwww I had a chicken once and sadly a hawk had an easy meal 😭 But yes I'm doing alright, I'm definitely trying to stay positive, I feel like it's a daily battle fighting myself to stop the negative and making myself think positively or busy myself.