After seven therapists, four psychiatrists, several
antidepressants/other medications, multiple therapy methods, alternative
medicines, changes in lifestyle, etc …. It’s become clear that I need
special aid in order to have a better quality of life.
At
the moment, my mom accompanies me everywhere. When she leaves home, I’m
already stretched thin. And although her presence keeps me calm, she’s
not very skilled at preventing attacks from happening, or de-escalating
them if they do. The constant accompanying is a strain for her, as well.
My hope is that a service dog will
provide me with a reliable grounding presence. It can be trained to
provide tactiles like body pressure, mouthing, licks. It can smell my
triggers, lead me to safe spaces, block a personal space bubble, find
help if I need it, and bring me the daily calmness that everyone else
enjoys. American law would allow me to bring my service dog to all
public spaces, businesses, and during emergencies.
With
a service dog, perhaps I can again walk five blocks to the cafe, and
use public transport, attend parties and events, manage a full-time job,
fly overseas to visit my family, and so much more. I want to get my
life going again.
I’m asking for $5,500. A
bred puppy (service dogs are trained from a young age, and good
breeding is highly recommended) costs around $2,000, the estimated
annual cost for a dog is $2,000, and the Owner Trainer Academy is $1,575.
With your help, I could fulfill my dreams within just a couple years! Any and all aid is greatly appreciated!
