What is an Anxiety Service Dog?
An anxiety service dog is a specially trained dog that provides support and assistance to individuals with anxiety disorders. These dogs are trained to perform specific tasks that help manage anxiety symptoms, such as:
- Providing deep pressure therapy: The dog can apply gentle pressure with their body, which can help to calm and ground the individual.
- Interrupting anxious behaviors: The dog can be trained to interrupt panic attacks or other anxious behaviors by nudging, licking, or barking.
- Retrieving items: The dog can help the individual retrieve medication or other items that they might need during an anxiety episode.
- Providing emotional support: The dog's presence can be calming and comforting, offering a sense of security and companionship.
Finding a Trainer in the UK
There are several organizations in the UK that provide anxiety service dog training. When choosing a trainer, it's important to look for:
- Accreditation: Make sure the trainer is accredited by a reputable organization, such as the Assistance Dogs International (ADI) or the International Association of Assistance Dog Partners (IAADP).
- Experience: Choose a trainer with experience working with anxiety service dogs and a proven track record of success.
- Individualized training: The training program should be tailored to your specific needs and the needs of your dog.
- Clear communication: The trainer should be open and transparent about the training process, costs, and expectations.
What to Expect During Training
The training process for an anxiety service dog can take several months or even years. It typically involves:
- Basic obedience: The dog will learn basic commands, such as sit, stay, come, and down.
- Task training: The dog will be trained to perform specific tasks that address your anxiety symptoms.
- Public access training: The dog will learn how to behave appropriately in public settings.
- Socialization: The dog will be exposed to a variety of people, places, and situations to help them become comfortable and confident.
Cost of Training
The cost of training an anxiety service dog can vary depending on the trainer and the length of the program. You should expect to pay several thousand pounds for a complete training program.
Conclusion
Anxiety service dogs can provide invaluable support to individuals with anxiety disorders. If you're considering getting an anxiety service dog, it's important to choose a reputable trainer and be prepared for a significant investment in time and money. However, the benefits of having a trained companion to help you manage your anxiety can be life-changing.