FMD and Pets

[LEEJUNFAN]

Hi everyone!

Has anyone out there found that their

symptoms of FMD have lessened

after buying a dog.

I know Animals reduce stress so I'm

just curious as to wether anyone

has seen a beneficial effect.

Many thanks.

Kim xx

[chowchangsox]

I have 2 wee dogs and no different infact my walking is very slow going and burning. I feel sorry for my pooches as I can only manage to top of street stopping with pain more often than usual. Soz not much help at this end.. H xx

[MyBDay]

I got a cat on the theory that petting the cat would help. My husband used to do ADA law and had a client who had a pet possum to soothe her. It inspired me. When the cat cooperated, it was very helpful. Then he died and I got two more. I have found them to be extremely demanding. So, while I love them and find petting them to be soothing, they also significantly disrupt any quiet time I manage to have. I also have a dog and she's just a pain. But, if you got a good one, I'm sure it would be a different story. They do have therapy dogs for anxiety and PTSD so it would just be a case of finding the right one. I would go for an older dog that is more mature and calm.

[LEEJUNFAN in reply to MyBDay]

Thank you so much for

all the replies.

It's something I'll definitely

consider with my FMD.

Best Wishes.

Kim xx

[kmvalade]

I have a emotional service dog and I know that when I have her with me I don't feel as stressed. I notice being stressed does escalate my issues. She helps me to feel calmer.

[cocoferraro]

HI KIM.

WAS DIAGNOSED 1 YEAR AGO

I THINK THAT HAVING A PET, CAT OR DOG, OR HAMSTER ETC IS A REALLY GOOD IDEA, AS I HAVE READ THAT STROKING A PET IS VERY GOOD FOR STRESS AND WHAT WE HAVE AND CAN ALSO DIVERT YOUR MIND AND GIVE YOU A HOBBIE. I HAVE SIX DOGS BUT IN HAD THEM BEFORE I WAS DIAGNOSED, NEVER THE LESS THEY ARE A GREAT COMFORT TO ME AND CAN CUDDLE ETC WITH THEM WHICH, I THINK IS THERAPUTIC, IN YOUR CASE THIS COULD HELP YOU A LOT AS I FEEL THAT A HOBBIE OR SOMETHING TO CONCENTRATE ON IS REALLY BENEFICIAL, GOOK LUCK, GO AND GET THAT PUP OR KITTEN NOW!!!!!!

[sharynwalker]

Since l have bought a puppy l have had less symptoms it has been the best thing for me and my family. When l have a bad day my dog helps me by getting me up and trying to walk and play with her which helps me feel better.

[LEEJUNFAN]

Hi there everyone!

I will be getting an Animal in the near

future definitely.

From all your lovely replies, it seems the best thing I could do.

Thank you all again.

Best Wishes to you all.

Kim xx

[angelite]

Hi there,

I have always had pets. During the worst time of my illness I did feel incredibly guilty that I was unable to take my dogs ( labradors ) out the way they were used to. On the really bad days, I had to rely on my partner to take them - it hurt me to not be capable enough to do this basic task. He would bring their food bowls onto the bed for me to make their dinner, it helped me to still retain some involvement. In early recovery, I was able to accompany partner, using him for balance along with stick ! Once the blood pressure etc had stabilized I was able to go out alone, with stick - I was so happy ! My dogs were a great incentive to work at physio , improving balance, strength and learning to manage spasticity. They were very loyal and understanding, respecting my pace , coming back to me to check in if I staggered or lagged behind : ) They would watch and wait at the foot of the steps as I came down from the park - my girl still does this to this day : )

My boy dog was also lovely during the motor fits of early illness, sitting with me on the floor, even though I could not stretch an arm out to stroke and thank him. Sadly he has passed away now but I do still have my girl : )

I also have a house rabbit and a very old doormouse. Bun takes a fair amount of cleaning/care as he young and bouncy and free range in living room, doormouse less so ! My old girl is still very agile and loves her walks, as I do too. Although I cannot do the 3-4 hour walks I used to be able to ,we go out for an hour each morning round 3 fields.She has a mild heart murmur now so overlong walks would probably be too tiring for her, anyway. We are well matched, these days ! : )

Depending on how much I am working/fatigued we may have an extra walk at night too, or partner may take her for a short one while I am at work.

So I would suggest that if you are considering a dog, go for a breed and energy requirement that matches your own abilities. If I were to get a replacement dog in the future, I would need an older, calmer type that is unlikely to be running off all over the place as I am unable to break into a run to catch them !

Consider also the associated basic vet fees, plus some money to one side in case of unexpected needs, especially as older models often require more maintenance ! : ))

I would certainly consider a rescue dog, myself, as my boy was originally from a working kennels and although nervous at first, as he had seen little of everyday life, with patience and socialisation he became a wonderful, confident, loyal friend : )

Kind regards, Angela x