ESA dogs for PTSD

Anyone have any experience with emotional support dogs for PTSD?

[peacefulandcalm Encourager]

no, but I have heard that they have saved people's lives, and it was the best thing they did for their ptsd.

I think it would be excellent. I would want a small one I could carry in my purse what kind would you want?

[Nom-D-Ploom in reply to peacefulandcalm]

My dog is a pit bull. I chose that breed because they are hard-wired to be extremely obedient. They bond with their humans more than any other breed I have looked at. And mine is smart!

If Pits are out, cocker spaniels are small, intelligent, and friendly. They are pretty smart, too.

Poodles, Pomeranians, and many other small breeds tend to be snappish, nervous, and prone to health problems. Also hard to housebreak.

Mixed breeds are also a good choice. By mixing the breeds many undesirable traits are bred out. They tend to be healthy, friendly, and maybe not as smart as some pure breeds, but they are quite trainable.

Whatever you choose, it is well worth it. If you get one from the ASPCA they will have already tested the temperament, which makes the choice much easier.

[Nathalie99 Partner]

I don't have experience myself but we do have members that do.

They really make a difference...

[Nom-D-Ploom]

When the nightmares were so severe that I was thinking of keeping a weapon by my bed to fight back (in the wee hours and after a long time without enough sleep) I realized that I have the perfect weapon, my very protective dog. Since I have been keeping her with me at night the dreams have been much less frequent, and flashbacks have virtually ceased. Since then I have learned about PSAs.

So, I started taking my dog with me when facing a difficult situation. Best thing I ever did.

[Hidden]

My last Collie was my support dog for my PTSD. She saved my life otherwise I wouldn’t be here today. She was there for me when I curled up in a corner unable to face the world. When I was frightened of life she was there. She was there when I thought people were speaking about me. For six years she was constantly beside me and suddenly she was taken cruelly from me. People underestimate dogs they understand a lot more than we give them credit for. My new pup is a year old and she is learning when I’m sad and upset. She’s only a baby herself so she is too young to understand human emotions yet. 🥰😘🐾🐾xx