What do you think would be the best "exotic" animal for a therapy animal for veterans?

2016-03-18T08:50:41-04:00

http://www.duffelblog.com/2016/03/va-tests-shark-therapy-with-mixed-results/?utm_source=Duffel+Blog+Fans&utm_campaign=8e53e43e4a-Duffel_Blog_Daily&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_6d392bc034-8e53e43e4a-23803917&goal=0_6d392bc034-8e53e43e4a-23803917&mc_cid=8e53e43e4a&mc_eid=a900ecfa17

VA Tests ‘Service Shark Therapy’ With Mixed Results – Duffel Blog

EVERGLADES CITY, Fla. — The Department of Veterans Affairs is scheduled to release astudy evaluating the use of largesharks as therapy animals, and the official outcome is “inconclusive” regarding their effectiveness supporting veterans emotionally and physically, sources say. The results are disappointing for the VA, whichis eager to regain the trust of veterans after nearly […]

Response by SGT John " Mac " McConnell made Mar 18 at 2016 8:56 AM

2016-03-18T08:56:07-04:00

You know ! That type of service animal has some bite.... Maybe they can sit back and chew the Fat ! Laffs ! Thanks PO3 Steven Sherrill

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 18 at 2016 9:53 AM

2016-03-18T09:53:09-04:00

Think of the conversations you could have with someone over that service animal. AND.........no one will try and jack you for ANYTHING. And I shall pet him and hug him and squeeze him and call him George.

Response by SPC Nicholas Cureton made Mar 18 at 2016 10:06 AM

2016-03-18T10:06:34-04:00

Great whites for warriors sounds like an indoctrination class for white suppremisists.

Response by TSgt William Meyer made Mar 18 at 2016 11:16 AM

2016-03-18T11:16:26-04:00

Nothing beats a DOG for a service animal, mine is a Shar-pei/Lab mix, she's also a rescue dog, so we both win.

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made Mar 18 at 2016 11:44 AM

2016-03-18T11:44:37-04:00

A python?

Response by SGT Richard H. made Mar 18 at 2016 11:52 AM

2016-03-18T11:52:10-04:00

The shark kind of limits where you can go. I think an Orangutan would be a much better choice...especially for an Infantry guy...it would be like still hanging with the boys.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 18 at 2016 12:32 PM

2016-03-18T12:32:03-04:00

Personally, I've benefitted the most from equine therapy. I have found that riding keeps me grounded, centered, and assists with restoring my fine motor skills and balance that have been effected by my TB!.

Response by PO3 Steven Sherrill made Mar 18 at 2016 1:02 PM

2016-03-18T13:02:22-04:00

My choice is the skunk. Of course the scent glands have to be removed, but skunks are loving animals. They would definitely be a conversation starter. They would give the veteran something to ro divert a conversation if it is getting uncomfortable, and they are soft and cuddly.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 18 at 2016 1:29 PM

2016-03-18T13:29:58-04:00

Snakes they're. Badass

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 18 at 2016 3:16 PM

2016-03-18T15:16:49-04:00

How about a Manatee, othwrwise know as a sea Cow?!?

Response by SPC Anna Larson made Apr 24 at 2016 11:45 AM

2016-04-24T11:45:31-04:00

I know the article is satire, but strange as it may sound, Prairie Dogs are quite loving and social animals. They are small enough to keep in a cage/pen for apartment dwellers and can "talk" to you. There's nothing like hearing them "WooHoo" you when you walk in the door. They have enough "vocal" skills to let you know the difference between happy and angry and they like to cuddle.