Service animals are invaluable companions to humans with an array of physical and emotional needs. Many think of these animal friends as exclusive aides to those with physical disabilities. However, truthfully, many animals provide many complex services to their owners.
Here’s a more nuanced look at the kinds of services rendered by our furry friends.
1. The Support They Provide You
The number one reason people seek service animals is for help with daily tasks that are otherwise more challenging with a disability.
These incredible creatures can perform a wide range of services, such as helping someone get around or safely navigating dangerous obstacles. They also provide companionship to those who may feel that they need it. Service animals are precious companions to people with unique and significant needs.
If you seek out a service animal for yourself, look into how to make my dog a service dog. There are a few different options, from matching with a trained animal to training your own so that your dog can offer you meaningful aid and support.
It is important to know that service animals and emotional support animals are not the same thing. An ESA may be more suitable if you need emotional companionship but not help with a specific task.
2. The Support They Provide Other People
These uniquely trained furry partners can provide services and help more than their owners. A well-trained service dog can also help someone who is a caregiver for a person with a disability.
Sometimes, people with disabilities may not be able to perform a task for themselves, such as fetching medication. A caregiver may be able to help during the day. However, depending on the cost and how much independence they want, a person with a disability might prefer only to have assistance during set hours.
A service dog can help during the off-hours when the caregiver isn’t available. It also assures caregivers who are family or friends. They might not feel comfortable leaving the person with a disability without backup, but they may set their minds at ease knowing that a service animal is at home with them.
3. They Support They Require
Animals, be they support or service, also need support, from a safe place to live to food and companionship. Having an animal that needs you can motivate someone who needs the animal’s services.
For example, a veteran whohasPTSD may struggle with motivation. But a service dog can lead to behavioral activation, which is a known and effective component of treatment for various mental health disorders.
Handlers understand that they must provide a certain quality of life for their service dog. They are more likely to work to secure that quality of life for themselves when their service animal acts as motivation. This energizing effect helps combat the harmful effects of various mental illnesses.
Conclusion
There are so many reasons to want a support animal, but these are three ways that these incredible creatures can transform your life and the lives of those around you. If you’re thinking about matching with a service animal, it’s within your rights. Take action today.