Wednesday, January 23, 2013

How To Choose The Best Psychiatric Service Dog

By Claudine MacDonald


There are many benefits that you can gain from having a pet in your home. This is also acknowledged when the owner is suffering from a psychological condition that makes him unable to function properly. This difficulty will be reduced when they have a psychiatric service dog to guide them wherever they may go.

These domesticated animals are known for their role as the loyal companion of mankind. They can support the individuals who have problem with their sight or hearing. At times, they do not only guard the property but they assist a deaf or blind person to reach their destination without being harmed.

There are certain factors to consider in order to qualify for the attainment of these services. A person must be diagnosed with psychiatric disability like general anxiety disorders, mood disorders, schizophrenia or post traumatic stress disorder. These animals do not only establish a professional level of relationship with the patient but they are very helpful in keeping them calm like when having a panic attack.

When they have undergone the special training, it is expected the they have acquired the skills needed for them to accomplish various tasks. They can be of assistance to ensure that the individual is functioning well whether indoors or outdoors. In addition, they remind the patient when to take their medication and to keep up with the routine activities they are supposed to do.

It is quite difficulty for an anxious person to remain calm or for a paranoid not to feel suspicious about the people around them when they are being exposed to a large crowd. However, when they have a regular companion who acts like they are provided protection, it helps them to overcome the fear. They feel secured as the dog knows where to position when they are outside the house.

As a result of having this kind of companionship, the patient is quite relieved from feeling isolated. They somehow experience an increased sense of wellness and purpose as well as self esteem and security. They develop healthy habits and they also become organized as they have established a daily structure.

Due to the constant support, they are likely to have an optimistic outlook of their future. They will never have to worry about interacting with various people or spending time in public places. With good compliance to their medication regimen and having developed a good exercise routine, they will be ready to access the world again.

It is essential that these dogs were able to attend the training program which normally takes six months to complete before they can be registered. In preparation for their big task, they should learn how to become capable in providing assistance to their handler. Since they will be mostly exposed to public places, they are taught the proper ways in behaving especially when inside a restaurant or mall.

You are assured that a psychiatric service dog is capable of interacting with the mentally challenged individual in a therapeutic manner. Choose one with whom you feel comfortable to further lessen the anxiety. You should also understand that this is different from the emotional support kind that simply does its task by always being there for their owner.




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