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Miley

psychiatric service dog question

I have severe anxiety disorder as well as personality disorders and bi-polar, my question is simple. My dog Miley knows when I'm having an "episode" with any of my disorders and is able to help me through them. I am planning on asking my psychiatrist if I would be considered a candidate for a service dog (which I would like to use Miley.) What would I have to do with her to make her a candidate to be my service dog if my doctor thinks it is a good idea? Also, if you know any websites that could help me out with this I would appreciate any help. If you can't put the full response in the questions area feel free to send me a paw-mail message. Thanks in advance for any help you can give me. In case it matters Miley is a purebred Cane Corso (not sure if breed matters since I've known people to have pitbulls as service dogs. nothing against pits... I love them and Miley plays with my neighbor's red nose on a daily basis and I just love them both to pieces!!)


Asked by Miley on Feb 14th 2011 Tagged servicedogs in Service & Therapy Dogs
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Miss Alabama, CGC -

Hi - First, your psychiatrist must write a letter prescribing a psych service dog for you.
Second, your dog must be trained to act appropriately in public access areas - on buses, trains, in stores, in restaurants. Find a trainer using dog-friendly methods for this training - tiny.cc , tiny.cc , or tiny.cc . This training is CRUCIAL, b/c if Miley doesn't learn to act appropriately (no fear, no boisterousness, no growling/hackles) in public areas (where other dogs aren't allowed) she won't be appropriate for use as a service dog.
Third, check out this website - www.psychdog.org/faq.html - it is a great resource for you to learn. There is so much to know and do to have a psych service dog. You have a long road ahead, just be aware. And BEST of luck!

Leigh Sansone, CPDT-KA
Ruff Customers Dog Training
www.RuffCustomers.com


Miss Alabama, CGC - "Allie" answered on 2/14/11. Helpful? Yes/Helpful: No 0 Report this answer


Wiley

Miley. The other poster gave you a great link to start with. I suggest you go to the Service & Therapy Dogs forum on the main page. The folks there are very knowledgable & would be able to help you out with all your questions. In Canada, different provinces have different laws regarding service animals, but in the States look up the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) which trumps local/state laws...I believe.


Wiley answered on 2/14/11. Helpful? Yes/Helpful: No 0 Report this answer


Guest

You can visit to the my website www.petmanage.com that would be really helpful for you.


Member 1030965 answered on 4/18/11. Helpful? Yes/Helpful: No 0 Report this answer


Guest

You actually dont have to be "prescribed" a dog. All you need is a letter stating your problems and that it may help. Just look for trainers. I am using Canines 4 hope. Go to their website and give them a call! My puppy started training today!


Member 1123313 answered on 7/30/12. Helpful? Yes/Helpful: No 0 Report this answer


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