[funkyorcrazy]

Has anyone gotten a dog for the purpose of therapy and/or emotional support? My pdoc thinks its a great idea to get a labrador retriever, but I would like to know some firsthand experience first, especially since I am a college student in nursing school. Any help is appreciated! btw I was recently diagnosed, and have been struggling mentally.

[Crazy Hitch]

(((funkyorcrazy)))

My papillion is my therapy dog.

I never adopted him with the intent of him becoming my therapy dog.

He just "became" one.

There are trained therapy dogs I believe too.

I just wanted to let you know from personal experience with my dog - yes, it is very effective indeed.

And I support your therapist's suggestion.

I am sorry to hear that you are struggling.

Hang in there.

I'm all for therapy animals. If you are an animal lover, and feel you have enough time and love to devote, it's a great idea!

[BlackSheep79]

I don't have a therapy dog, but my dogs are therapy for me. My husband and I are not having children, so they are my children. When I'm at work and having a bad day I know my favorite, don't tell the others, will be waiting for me and ready to cuddle. They calm me down, they snuggle, they make me laugh with each of them having there own unique personalities. Just know that they are a lot of work, you need to have the time and being a student is already time consuming.

[Andica]

I have a pit that I'd consider my emotional support! Her being here has helped me with bipoler and ptsd, but at the same time she is a ton of work. Well worth it tho.