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PinkyBear3

646d

Do any of you have a service dog to help with mental disorders? What are your thoughts? I have been researching getting one to help with my extreme dissociation, panic attacks, and self harm urges.

Top reply
    • FlexinTexan

      645d

      My service dog turns 5 on Friday! It's a ROUGH process, but totally worth it in the end. My dog has saved my life many times in many ways. I wouldn't trade that struggle for anything. To answer your other question, service dogs generally need (minimum) 2 years of training. My pup spent just over 2 years initially training just to be ready, and has had a few refreshers along the way. We're always training, of course, but we do a mixture of owner training, professional training, and board and train. For reference, I have spent more on my dog and her training than I paid down on my house. It's not easy and it's not cheap but if you think it would work for you I'd go for it. Just don't fall the for the online scams where you just buy a certificate. Those are fake and awful. Please research the steps of service dog ownership and the difference between service dogs, ESAs, and therapy dogs thoroughly. Good luck!

    • FlexinTexan

      645d

      My service dog turns 5 on Friday! It's a ROUGH process, but totally worth it in the end. My dog has saved my life many times in many ways. I wouldn't trade that struggle for anything. To answer your other question, service dogs generally need (minimum) 2 years of training. My pup spent just over 2 years initially training just to be ready, and has had a few refreshers along the way. We're always training, of course, but we do a mixture of owner training, professional training, and board and train. For reference, I have spent more on my dog and her training than I paid down on my house. It's not easy and it's not cheap but if you think it would work for you I'd go for it. Just don't fall the for the online scams where you just buy a certificate. Those are fake and awful. Please research the steps of service dog ownership and the difference between service dogs, ESAs, and therapy dogs thoroughly. Good luck!

    • BPDPrincess

      646d

      I have a 9 year old service dog I adopted when he was 12 weeks old. I went to school for dog training and I trained him myself. Best thing ever. He helps with nightmares, anxiety attacks, self-harm, and so much more.

      • PinkyBear3

        646d

        @BPDPrincess How long did it take to train him to the point that he's at now? Like how long til he was able to fully task and help calm you down? Or is it just an ongoing training?

☝ This content is generated by our users and it is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Please consult with your physician before making any medical decision

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