I don't have a PSD but do have 2 lovely pet dogs and can relate to the therapeutic value of having pets around. I'm legally blind so in theory could have a guide dog (in my case it really isn't necessary as I can still see plenty enough to get around visually - I do know a lot of people with guide dogs though and if my sight dropped the idea of having a dog in a supportive role makes perfect sense). The obvious benefit of having a registered assistant dog is that they have permission to accompany you to places where ordinary pets are not permitted.
Someone wrote about being allergic. I also have allergies and I have 2 multigen labradoodles and have no problems with these whatsoever - they also have a great temperament and are very 'intuitive' - they react to emotion and seem to know when something isn't right. I got my first dog 2.5 years ago and she helped me put structure back in my life. The only downside I see with having dogs (well or any pets for that matter) is that regardless of how you feel you need to care for them - and if you feel really really awful, that can sometimes be an extra drain on resources. The plus side is that it forces you to keep going. I definitely don't regret getting the dogs.
Onzi
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