PSYCHIATRIC SERVICE DOG TRAINING

WHAT IS A PSYCHIATRIC SERVICE DOG?

A psychiatric service dog is a dog who is specifically trained to perform a task that assists a person with a psychiatric disorder. For example during my time in the Navy I was diagnosed with anxiety and panic attacks. This began to limit my ability to do normal day to day tasks. I have since trained my personal dog to the “Pressure” command. This is where I lay on the ground, couch, bed and even lay the front seat of my car and have her lay on my chest. Once she is there I do my breathing exercise and this eliminates a panic attack very quickly! These dogs are expected to interact only with their owners, should be quiet and well mannered while in public.

WHAT DOG CAN BE A SERVICE DOG?

There is no breed, gender or age requirements only that the dog is able to perform the necessary tasks while being well manners and properly behaved. I personally believe there is a high standard to uphold when it comes to a service dog. The dog must be a proper representation of all service dogs, being a positive experience for all those who they come in contact with! Our service dogs must not distract other dogs from their jobs as the task they perform may be a life saving medical task!

HOW DOES THE DOG SELECTION PROCESS WORK?

There is several options for where a service dog can come from, regardless of where they come from there is no guarantee they will be a successful candidate for this work as it a very high level of obedience and some dogs may not be able to handle the expectations required of them. All candidates will be assessed for their drive, confidence and desire to be around people and in public.

One option is we take the dog you have currently and train and socialize them to be able to perform the tasks you need and be a rock solid dog in public!

A second option is an animal shelter, I am a massive fan of this option! The opportunity to rescue a dog and then use it to improve the lives and well being of a person in need is incredible!

A third option is to get a dog from a breeder, this option this also a great option as well be able to have more control over the dogs upbringing and genetic characteristics and will decrease the chance of washing out of the program!