What does your pet (dog, cat, etc) do to help improve your life after the military?

SGT Joseph Gunderson — Mon, 30 Apr 2018 11:45:24 -0400

I got out of the Army back in 2014 and I just recently adopted a German Shepard named George. He is a bit of a prick sometimes but I have found that having that other living thing at home is actually really nice. With the exception of George, I live alone and quite a drive away from any family or friends. I have had a rough go at it after the military due to my bipolar disorder and a myriad of other little issues but it has gotten a lot better. My mood has improved, I have begun to get into better shape, and all around life seems to have gone into an upswing since I got the little furry bastard. Do you have any pets at home? If so, what do they do to improve your life?

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 30 at 2018 12:29 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 30 Apr 2018 12:29:30 -0400

I've had my fair share of disorders, as well. My dogs and cats provide routine and motivate for me to stay active. Yesterday, I attended a dog-friendly social event that randomly pops up on days with perfect weather. My cats let me face plant on their stomachs when I need to de-stress. The house has never been cleaner, because the puppy mandates that I need to keep chewable items out of reach. I am basically rebuilding my life with consideration for living creatures other than just me.

Response by SPC Margaret Higgins made Apr 30 at 2018 2:15 PM

SPC Margaret Higgins — Mon, 30 Apr 2018 14:15:33 -0400

SGT Joseph Gunderson: My cat Emily: lies on my arm or some other part of my body at night. She licks my hand repeatedly: which, I have been told- is a sign of respect.
Emily, is my emotional support cat. Emily and I adore one another.

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made Apr 30 at 2018 2:57 PM

MAJ Ken Landgren — Mon, 30 Apr 2018 14:57:43 -0400

They love you implicitly, even if you are having a bad day. I also have a tame giant Red Macaw and she is like a buddy. Unfortunately I have such a great rapport with Ariel that she wants to mate with me lol

Response by LTC Stephen C. made Apr 30 at 2018 3:17 PM

LTC Stephen C. — Mon, 30 Apr 2018 15:17:43 -0400

Liza Jane calls the shots at our house, SGT Joseph Gunderson! She's a pure bred miniature long hair dachshund, and she is as sweet as she is pretty! She'll be seven years old this summer.
She brightens the day for my wife and me, and if she senses you're in distress (like when I had a coughing spell), she comes to you to see if she can fix what ails you!

Response by Maj John Bell made Apr 30 at 2018 4:09 PM

Maj John Bell — Mon, 30 Apr 2018 16:09:16 -0400

I have a farm. Every animal serves a purpose:

_Goats - Milk, other dairy products, meat, hides, and cash; plus amusement
_Turkeys - Meat and cash
_Chickens - Eggs, meat and cash, plus amusement
_Goose - Meat and I am always ready to be attacked, plus alarm system
_Pigs - Bacon, plus other lesser value pork.
_Rabbits - Meat and Fur
_Cats - Rodent control, plus they accompany me and supervise me doing farm chores
_Livestock guard dogs - Early warning system of coyote attack on goats
_House Dogs - Traffic control on goats and companionship
-Horses - A reason for my wife to stay with me until she finds someone better looking, richer, and who will also shovel money down a horses throat for nothing but manure. Fortunately most of the men in the county are smarter than me.

Seriously, if it weren't for the animals, it would be too easy to become inactive and a couch potato. They gotta be fed and farm chores gotta be done. It's one thing to let an inanimate thing go neglected. it takes a heartless bastard to neglect a living thing. I am many things but not heartless.

Response by PFC Robert Lee Gregory made Apr 30 at 2018 4:45 PM

PFC Robert Lee Gregory — Mon, 30 Apr 2018 16:45:03 -0400

My boys keep me going.. Without them I'd be dead already

Response by Jenn Moynihan made Apr 30 at 2018 5:53 PM

Jenn Moynihan — Mon, 30 Apr 2018 17:53:41 -0400

SGT Joseph Gunderson - Glad that you’ve found someone - a 4-footed fellow - to help with your mental health and overall health.

This little monkey can be found at Boston/Logan USO greeting service members, and families, as they come by.

She even has her own name tag. Koko.

Response by PFC Robert Lee Gregory made Apr 30 at 2018 6:07 PM

PFC Robert Lee Gregory — Mon, 30 Apr 2018 18:07:13 -0400

Bro.. Its like you stole my story. I'm pretty much alone out here. Miss my brothers at arms. Ive had my oldest dog for 12 of his 13 years.. And recently adopted a miniature pinscher. He's an asshole which works for me cuz apparently I am too. Oh well. Just had a partial knee replacement so I too am starting to get back in shape. And I'm headed back into culinary arts training for the 2nd time. Didn't complete it last time due to my mental health issues.. But I'm forcing myself to get thru it.

Response by Cpl Justin Goolsby made Apr 30 at 2018 10:55 PM

Cpl Justin Goolsby — Mon, 30 Apr 2018 22:55:48 -0400

The companionship is the big thing for me. When I was in, I lost 2 longtime dogs. I had a yellow lab that had to be put down because he had a history of seizures and it finally got so bad there was no other option. The other was a German shepherd who was in my life for almost 20 years and finally succumbed to age.

I honestly had no interest in any pets after losing my buddies. But my wife was interested in getting a pet, so I told her it would be her responsibility. She brought home a runty black lab that no one would adopt because it had a "bully breed" pedigree. It's part Chow-Chow. It literally looks like a straight black lab, except it has the curly tail and the black tongue. It also only grew to like 1/2 the size of my other lab.

She brought that dog home and my heart melted to it. He became my best buddy. Sleeps on my legs. Completely loyal to me. My wife may have adopted it, but it became my dog. If it wasn't for my wife bringing him home, I'm not sure if I would have been ever open to adopting another pet after losing my longtime companions.

So his companionship is the biggest thing he's done to improve my life.

Response by Cpl Gabriel F. made May 1 at 2018 12:36 AM

Cpl Gabriel F. — Tue, 01 May 2018 00:36:03 -0400

Good looking pup. Heads up if you have not researched this. Emotional Support is one of your K-9's best attributes. George will keep you from ripping someone's face off because you do not want George to have a problem when you go to jail. Always there waiting, ready to walk or run and keeping people from sneaking up on you. Always listening, watching and scenting. George may have had some issues with folks before you adopted him. Thus the being a prick sometimes.
Mine is a Dachshund. The only dog recognized as a above and below ground hunter. Think tunnel rat. When the girl was kicked to the curb she could not take him. He has been registered as a Emotional Support Dog. Complete with certificate, I.D. Card, with copies of federal law that states he can ride the plane, train, bus and stay with me and go most any where. Good luck, be patient as you are able and enjoy your new partner.

Response by PO3 Phyllis Maynard made May 1 at 2018 4:50 AM

PO3 Phyllis Maynard — Tue, 01 May 2018 04:50:17 -0400

SGT Joseph Gunderson where do I start. So I guess a picture will have to say a thousand words.

Response by Lt Col Scott Shuttleworth made May 1 at 2018 9:29 AM

Lt Col Scott Shuttleworth — Tue, 01 May 2018 09:29:49 -0400

Pets don't care what kind of day you have...they just greet you when you walk in the door with a smile. They are just glad to see you and want to be with you with love unconditionally.

Response by SGT Patrick Reno made May 1 at 2018 11:26 AM

SGT Patrick Reno — Tue, 01 May 2018 11:26:11 -0400

Even though I work full time, I also do Metal Art. I could not work in my shop with out having my dog Hunter out there with me. She does more to keep me centered than anything else. Even though she is getting older and just spends most of her time sleeping it's important to have her there. We have 4 dogs but she is deffinatly dads girl.

Response by MSG Carl Leffel made May 1 at 2018 4:13 PM

MSG Carl Leffel — Tue, 01 May 2018 16:13:59 -0400

Could have had the worst day ever, but the clouds left and the sun came out when I would see these guys waiting for me after work.

Response by SGT Andrew Van Donselaar made May 6 at 2018 10:12 AM

SGT Andrew Van Donselaar — Sun, 06 May 2018 10:12:01 -0400

Mine keeps me calm and distracts me when I start to get panic attacks. Has kept me from acting out my nightmares. Like I did one night and tried to harm my wife.

Response by SGM Bill Frazer made May 6 at 2018 2:33 PM

SGM Bill Frazer — Sun, 06 May 2018 14:33:30 -0400

I have 2 Mini-Pinchers and quite frankly, their antics and love kept me from eating a bullet, till the VA started helping me, they still help with my depression.

Response by SSG Robert Perrotto made May 8 at 2018 9:49 AM

SSG Robert Perrotto — Tue, 08 May 2018 09:49:17 -0400

Honest to God answer - my Lab is an anchor in my life - call me what you will - she is an emotional de escalator for me, and her presence and love are dear to me - hell - she means more to me then most people - she doesn't lie, steal. or judge me - all she does is love me.

Response by Marc Lindshield made May 9 at 2018 7:13 PM

Marc Lindshield — Wed, 09 May 2018 19:13:57 -0400

I'm former Law Enforcement with USCG-Aux background. I have a spinal injury but adopted a Pit Bull in 2009 (something I would have never done because of my ignorance of the breed but She manipulated me with her eyes) After a bad Truck crash and further injury, a friend, and K-9 trainer suggested I get her up to speed as a Mobility Service Dog - She changed my Life... and Rescued it.

I lost her to Cancer in 2015 - hardest thing I've endured, harder than the loss of my Mom 2 months later. I now have an American Bulldog/Pittie Service Dog. If you're interested and willing - I'm betting George can pick up his game with the help of some training aids and you'll benefit too with the association. The more I know and have Dogs... the less I like humans!

Response by CW4 Robert C. made May 16 at 2018 11:32 AM

CW4 Robert C. — Wed, 16 May 2018 11:32:07 -0400

I have four animals at the house. I have 2 cats and 2 dogs. The cats are okay but I am a dog person. I have a Tiny Toy Poodle that I got when she was a puppy, she was originally for the wife as a gift and as a service dog for her anxiety. But since then the dog has re gifted herself to me and I have had her registered with a national registry that she is my service dog for my PTSD, Depression and Anger issues. Whenever I get angry or start to have a bad dream she is in my face licking it and calming me down. As she is paying attention to me I forget what I was dreaming about or what I was getting angry about and focus my attention on her. I love her to death. She is now 13 years old and I am worried about her and her health and I know I will be heart broken when she is called to heaven. I have had to put down one dog because of illness and I don't want to do another especially this one who means so much to me. She keeps me grounded. The other dog is a rescue dog who I got for my son. So she is his dog and helps him with his own issues. I love my animals and only wish that they would live forever or at least as long as we do.

Response by Randy Garland made May 21 at 2018 3:20 AM

Randy Garland — Mon, 21 May 2018 03:20:27 -0400

These animals are just like the soldiers that they protect they should be giving all the respect and honor that they deserve let's see if you can sniff out a dead gum roadside or Bouncing Betty or some kind of chemical welfare that would have blown your ass away if it hadn't been for one of them dogs and saved everybody

Response by PO2 Richard Taylor made Jun 5 at 2018 9:28 PM

PO2 Richard Taylor — Tue, 05 Jun 2018 21:28:55 -0400

I have a service dog from Southeastern Guide Dogs. He was trained for nearly 2 years before we were teamed up. As well as PTSD he helps me cope with a TBI (stroke in my case) and a couple of orthopedic traumas, including crushed disks in c5-7 with partial paralysis. So, yeah, my dog has probably saved my life.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 1 at 2018 12:47 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 01 Jul 2018 12:47:50 -0400

One helps me with my nightmares and flashbacks, Buddy isn't always quick to react but once he lays on my side after I take my top off he works his doggy magic I fall deep into a dream-less sleep.

Zoey is a smaller cuddle buddy who stays close to my chest when I'm scared or having violent nightmares.

Response by SGT Charles Bartell made Jul 29 at 2018 8:19 PM

SGT Charles Bartell — Sun, 29 Jul 2018 20:19:59 -0400

The Hair bags are more then jest pets. They are like Family and somtimes bettter. I do not have room for a Dog But I have had Cat's for most of my life. I know for the most part if we get them from the shelter we can save them to help save us. They are Damged like most of us. I know for a fact that if my cats had not been there for me. I would not be here.

Response by SFC Janette Wilkinson made Dec 4 at 2019 7:58 PM

SFC Janette Wilkinson — Wed, 04 Dec 2019 19:58:55 -0500

I have 3 rescue dogs that I adore. They bring happiness to my life and a sense of fulfillment. They receive my love with so much appreciation. I see a beautiful soul inside each one. And I know that they are my constant companions. I spent several weeks/months in a wheelchair in pain. My faithful dog, Canelo stayed by my side all those long and difficult days. It was as if he knew that I was hurting and he wanted to be there for me. I will never forget that.

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 4 at 2019 8:05 PM

SSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 04 Dec 2019 20:05:01 -0500

If it wasn't for my ESA I probably wouldn't spend any more time here, I don't have much else in life anymore to keep me occupied and I don't have much else to live for but the dog keeps me around

Response by PFC Rona Robinson made Dec 4 at 2019 8:42 PM

PFC Rona Robinson — Wed, 04 Dec 2019 20:42:13 -0500

My dog died after suffering a brain tumor

Response by Sgt Louis R B. made Dec 4 at 2019 10:12 PM

Sgt Louis R B. — Wed, 04 Dec 2019 22:12:49 -0500

I have my Service Dog but I had to Pay-Out of Pocket expenses my self and wish I could get reimbursed for it because it shorted me on the Disability that I receive from the VA.

My dog Hennessey has been wonderful for me as far as my PTSD, using my CPAP, and my Cardio Conditions waking me up when something goes wrong. I Rescued her before the people who owned her were going to put her in the pound because of the pound would have put her down and I took her to my Neighbors Vet Shop and he rebuilt her back leg and she was in a cast for 6 months and she is a Wonderful Support dog for me. My Daughter came into my room and took the photo of her sleeping on my stomach. She is a Cane Corso Mastiff and now she is 3yrs 8 mths old and she was 9 months when we Adopted or Rescued her and she is fantastic at keeping me calm all the time. She is ESA and Service Dog Certified for me.

I forgot to mention we have 6 dogs in my home my 2 girls have Huskies, My Son has a Heinze 57, and we have a Teacup Chihuahua and Standard Chihuahua and the Teacup (JARHEAD) was the First dog in Our Home and Bosses the Big ones around

Response by CPL Mary Phillips made Dec 4 at 2019 10:49 PM

CPL Mary Phillips — Wed, 04 Dec 2019 22:49:29 -0500

This is my Service Sugar she gives me
support when no one else is there Sugar right next to me. When my PTSD get aggregated she comes closer to me, to assure everything is going to be okay. I have had her now for 4 years. I am very grateful to have her in my life. I don’t know what I would do without Sugar

Response by PO3 Tim Brown made Dec 4 at 2019 10:53 PM

PO3 Tim Brown — Wed, 04 Dec 2019 22:53:28 -0500

Damian and I have traveled many paths together. He keeps me moving forward. I wouldn't be here if not for this dog.

Response by CPT Theresa Wilkes made Dec 5 at 2019 12:09 AM

CPT Theresa Wilkes — Thu, 05 Dec 2019 00:09:40 -0500

I have a Protective dog that my son train when he was in the army he just need a little bit more help and I have off for service so they just need more training

Response by PO2 Albert Robbins made Dec 5 at 2019 8:49 AM

PO2 Albert Robbins — Thu, 05 Dec 2019 08:49:34 -0500

I'm a Vietnam veteran, and have been struggling and quietly struggling since I came home and had to deal with hateful demorats. Last fall I was seriously considering giving up. A kind soul donated a Dachshund puppy to me and arranged for a trainer. Buddy is now my constant companion and my main reason to not give up. He's my Doctor Doggie, and a credit to his breed. He's a whole lot of loving hound in a compact package.

Response by SCPO Cj Smith made Dec 5 at 2019 9:43 AM

SCPO Cj Smith — Thu, 05 Dec 2019 09:43:23 -0500

After my retirement from active duty in 2005, I began to search on ways to support the troops who were adversely affected by the GWOT through physical or emotional trauma and service dogs became our focus. In 2010, my wife and I began volunteering as puppy raisers for a national non-profit, Canine Companions for Independence. As a puppy raiser, we foster an 8 week old Lab/Golden puppy that is specifically bred to become a highly-trained assistance dog. We have these dogs for ~18 months where they learn 30 commands and are socialized for all aspects of life. After leaving our home, the dog is given 6-9 months of professional training before being placed into service. Canine Companions provides these dogs free of charge to veterans, adults and children. In the 44 years of its existence, Canine Companions has placed over 6,300 dogs and currently has over 2,000 teams that are actively working. Canine Companions is also the only service provider that worked with the VA to complete the 3 year study on how service dogs mitigate the affects of PTSD. In these 10 years, we have raised 7 dogs, 3 which have placed with individuals whose lives were changed. I highly suggest that anyone who is searching for a service dog to consider Canine Companions, they have six regions across the country, and over 3,000 volunteers - some who live in your communities. Look them up. #GiveaDogaJob

Response by SSG Erik Rasch made Dec 5 at 2019 9:47 AM

SSG Erik Rasch — Thu, 05 Dec 2019 09:47:00 -0500

That is great, glad to see you are still driving forward.

It would appear that the VA does not follow up on or provide some sort of oversight to provide guidance or consistent application of the requirements to receive a service animal for the organization that provide service animals. Received my rating and Rx (letter from VA Healthcare System stating the need) for a service animal by the VA in 2018. Called around to multiple organizations via list provided by the VA asking questions and letting them know I have authorization and a Rx. Informed that I would have to go through their own medical review board after I completed a lengthy application process and sign a release of medical records. Then, if approved, the wait would be four years. This is absurd, already went through a "medical review board" by the VA and why would I give a 3rd party access to my medical records. Also, asked what kind of doctors would be reviewing my application. Was told by one organization, "Oh, there are no doctors on it, we just call it that." Hmmm, interesting.

One organization in North Texas stated I could make a donation of $10K and shorten the time period to two years. Asked if this would affect another veteran already in the queue, was told, "Yes, this would bump another person already inline." Hmmm, interesting and not the correct way to treat people.

Reached out to Rebuilding Warriors, they had already selected their recipients for 2019 and 2020. They were very helpful, understanding and put me in touch with their breeder Diamond Match German Shepherds, LLC that provides Service Animals. Was able to acquire a service animal from the very next available litter (not bumping anyone else). Diamond match has been training my service animal since last year with delivery in May/June of 2020 (with 1-2 weeks of one-on-one training). Keep in mind that I have been funding this activity via my VA compensation check since going through a Service Animal Provider Organization seemed prohibitive.

Just my thoughts and rants about the process - hope the group finds the above useful.

Response by SPC Michael Dixon made Dec 5 at 2019 9:53 AM

SPC Michael Dixon — Thu, 05 Dec 2019 09:53:56 -0500

I'm a amputee left BLK How do I get a service dog please email at [login to see] please put in SUBJECT LINE: SERVICE DOG thank you

Response by MAJ Anton Ciomperlik made Dec 5 at 2019 11:53 AM

MAJ Anton Ciomperlik — Thu, 05 Dec 2019 11:53:13 -0500

My service Horse has given me so much joy to raise. He is 22 months old now and I’ve had him since he was two months. I mess with him every day and he is halter broke. I work him in the round pen and he loves the attention. Another year and I ride him too. I stay focused and I have responsibility for his care.

Response by Cpl OffRoadrageous Jeepman made Dec 5 at 2019 1:28 PM

Cpl OffRoadrageous Jeepman — Thu, 05 Dec 2019 13:28:49 -0500

It's nice that you provide service dogs for post 911 veteran I think it's great that you do this. But ya know we Vietnam vets would benefit from a program like this.

Response by SGT Cheryl Meadows Smith made Dec 5 at 2019 2:05 PM

SGT Cheryl Meadows Smith — Thu, 05 Dec 2019 14:05:48 -0500

I had ptsd when I got out of the military and thought I was over it until a tumor was discovered growing out of a nerve in my brain. It was killed but now I am nervous and get upset for no reason at all. My dog helps keep me calm. When I get upset I sit on my couch, she lays next to me, as close as she can possibly get, and I just run my hand up and down her back. This helps a great deal. Also having someone devoted totally to me and someone that I can take care helps me get by day to day. I still don't want to leave the house but she keeps me going.

Response by MSgt Robert Knapp made Dec 5 at 2019 4:52 PM

MSgt Robert Knapp — Thu, 05 Dec 2019 16:52:18 -0500

My Australian Shepard Service Dog (Skittles) has been with me for 8 years. Since I have a pace-maker she is by my side when I'm alone to seek help. Recently, on Nov 5th, my pace maker was replaced. On the morning of Nov 6th Skittles was acting jumpy and whimpering. About 2 pm my legs and ankles were swelling so I laid down with my feet elevated. My wife was at the dentist. At 3:40 Skittles jumped on the bed and then on me and woke me up. I sat up and could not breath. Gasping for air I called 911. Within minutes the on site EMTs arrived. They began given me oxygen that helped me breath somewhat. My wife arrived and the ambulance took me to the hospital. I was diagnosed with congestive heart failure and my lungs and heart were filled with water. After 3 days in the hospital the fluid was gone and I went home. The doctors said that Skittles more than likely saved my life. Always pay attention to you pets. Their sensory perception is 10,000 times greater than ours.

Response by CA Richie Levine made Dec 5 at 2019 9:30 PM

CA Richie Levine — Thu, 05 Dec 2019 21:30:24 -0500

Bi-polar, PDST, hears problems reconstruction on the right knee and right construction on the right hip back operation this past May L4 L5 fused together..many meds...I need help preferred a service dog a retire one would be nice....

Response by CA Richie Levine made Dec 5 at 2019 9:44 PM

CA Richie Levine — Thu, 05 Dec 2019 21:44:33 -0500

Disabled Veteran, PDST, BI-POLAR, WAS DOWN AT 9/11 EVERYDAY and STATEN ISLAND FERRY HIT A cement Pier lot of people lost limbs 7 dead 24 her so I left from the service came back to disaster I have to live on 30 pills a day I go to the VA psychologist psychiatrist I need a service dog to help me please help me

Response by PFC Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 5 at 2019 9:52 PM

PFC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 05 Dec 2019 21:52:55 -0500

I served 6 years. After be set to deploy to iraq in 2011, I tore my Achilles and couldnt deploy even though I kept volunteering. I ended up serving two state side deployments during hurricane sandy and the blizzards in 2010. I seen some things during that time that I still see to this day. On top of bipolar disorder and really bad anxiety and depression. When I got out I found out that my years served didnt mean anything. As the VA wont recognize my time because, the army national guard split my active duty time so that it was a "consecutive " 180 days even though I was active much more than 180 total. So I served my country only to be left in debt and zero benefits. All that being said, there has been multiple times where suicide almost happened. I decided to get a dog. Even though she is a block head and a major pain in the ass some times, this dog has saved my life many times, specially since the army and the government doesnt care enough to help and doesnt even acknowledge my service. If not for my dog and my daughter I'd be another statistic another veteran suicide. Dogs and other animals are amazing tools for people dealing with the problems I and many other veterans suffer. Does anyone know if there is a way to not get a service dog but to get my dog certified to get her a vest and become my legal service dog?

Response by PV2 Arthur Fontaine made Dec 5 at 2019 10:59 PM

PV2 Arthur Fontaine — Thu, 05 Dec 2019 22:59:38 -0500

I got out of the Military, i.e., U.S.Army. Did I want to? Hell to the no! But as it was to be what it was to be, low and behold it was strongly indicated to my sorry ass that I had to go and there were to many high ranks, I just wouldn't be able to convince I should remain in. So out I went unwillingly and very sorrowfully and to be honest rather embarrassed and ashamed that I couldn't finish my first tour. For some reason no one cares for me in Civilian life, yet I give them no reason not to. It just seems to be this way. Heck, my kids and my Fiance' are the same way to me and yet all I do is good. I suffer mental issues, memory loss badly, spine issues, stomach issues, breathing issues and oh hell the list can go on and on. I have two dogs, tiny little carpet critter shit' er's. They follow me everywhere and are up my ass practically and sometimes under foot. I love them to death and without them, I would have nothing live that understands me as do they. My town collects dog license fees and I can't afford them and I've already been ticketed $187.00 and of course I fear the worse. I pay for a house, two kids, my Fiance', her brother that stays here, an in ground pool that just broke, washer and dryer that just broke, garage door that just broke and won't allow me to get tractor out to put plow on to snow plow driveway, so have to go through tremendous and agonizing pain to shovel it, whether I like to or not as my girls have to go to school n' church and the like things, lights and switches broken and already paid an electrician to do whole house and he did not so good of a job, roof leaked, went through loan and Home Depot to get fixed, Boiler circulation pumps went, two of them, pool pump went, water main was incorrect, fridge broke, stove went... I mean the list just goes on and on and on! This all has taken place in a matter of under 6 years too. I find it hard to feed family and or my dogs. And folks out there talk about things like suicide? I tell ya... if it really weren't for my two dogs... I'll just leave it at that!

Response by CPL Billy Wood made Dec 5 at 2019 11:28 PM

CPL Billy Wood — Thu, 05 Dec 2019 23:28:58 -0500

I just rescued a chow pit mix because have been trying to get service dog 4 12 years hes 1 year old now I have him resesterd as emotal support dog but he needs traing but don't have lot of money just disabled vetern anybody know how I can get hlp with traing she is so loving and provides love and support she has lime disease from mistreatment from previos owner but she is so loving she still likes to bark at other dogs but shes getting better but still have not stoped her from being so empatant she gets bored and whines and barks unless moving but cant let her go great dog any ideas [login to see] ty

Response by SGT Cheryl Meadows Smith made Dec 6 at 2019 9:53 PM

SGT Cheryl Meadows Smith — Fri, 06 Dec 2019 21:53:03 -0500

I have seen here many requests for a service dog or how to get one trained. I have found the following: https://rsds.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/Organizations-that-Work-to-Provide-Veterans-with-Service-Dogs.pdf

Some help free of charge, supposedly. I can't guarantee the information is still current but some where on that list, something must still work. I hope it helps someone.

Organizations-that-Work-to-Provide-Veterans-with-Service-Dogs.pdf

Response by SPC Troy Eisenhour made Dec 6 at 2019 10:58 PM

SPC Troy Eisenhour — Fri, 06 Dec 2019 22:58:13 -0500

I had to start with a service/companion dog in 1999, I started with depression and also have very vivid dreams that cause me to wake up in a cold hot sweat. I have a lab but her hips are displaced and turning 10, 70 years old her time. How do I get a trained dog, I'm to old to train another dog.

Response by PO1 Elizabeth Congrove made Dec 8 at 2019 11:23 AM

PO1 Elizabeth Congrove — Sun, 08 Dec 2019 11:23:06 -0500

Canine Companions for Independence (cci.org) is another organization that provides Service Dogs to veterans free of charge. They are a wonderful organization that I am proud to say I am a volunteer Puppy Raiser for. If you don't think you need a Service Dog, then please look into becoming a Puppy Raiser. I am currently raising my third dog and it has increased my level of happiness knowing I am still helping others after having served 20 years.

Response by SGT Franklin Brown made Dec 8 at 2019 2:34 PM

SGT Franklin Brown — Sun, 08 Dec 2019 14:34:48 -0500

i have a chihuahua who has been with me all his life. i can honestly say id be lost without him. to me, he gives true joy and love because they cannot fake that , we can as people, and thats how i know its genuine. at the end of the day , i know he will always be there for me and that is guaranteed. thankyou for letting me share. merry christmas to all my brothers in arms and all their special pets. HOOHAH!!!!!!!!!!

Response by 1SG James Kelly made Dec 8 at 2019 2:46 PM

1SG James Kelly — Sun, 08 Dec 2019 14:46:55 -0500

My dogs are a lot smarter than a lot of troops I've had and damn near every 2LT.

Response by PFC Tom Vogel made Dec 9 at 2019 7:58 PM

PFC Tom Vogel — Mon, 09 Dec 2019 19:58:26 -0500

I have a lab which I trained in a group. She helps with my ptsd from Ventana .

Response by MAJ Anton Ciomperlik made May 10 at 2020 11:29 AM

MAJ Anton Ciomperlik — Sun, 10 May 2020 11:29:15 -0400

I have a young colt, who is my battle buddy

Response by SGT Matt Haase made May 10 at 2020 11:53 AM

SGT Matt Haase — Sun, 10 May 2020 11:53:58 -0400

My rescue cat is phenomenal. I found my little buddy that I can talk to and doesn’t think I’m crazy.

Response by Sgt Louis R B. made May 21 at 2020 4:06 PM

Sgt Louis R B. — Thu, 21 May 2020 16:06:50 -0400

This is my Hennessey (Cane Corso Mastiff) she is my Service Dog and wakes me up if I stop Breathing, have a Plash Back, or if my heart gets Erratic, she has been a Lifesaver for me several times, my Daughter Patt snuck in my room and took our photo.

She loves my Electric Queen Size Hospital bed because it has Massage

Response by Sgt Louis R B. made May 21 at 2020 4:43 PM

Sgt Louis R B. — Thu, 21 May 2020 16:43:23 -0400

I have my Son 18, my Daughters 21, and 22 living with me and we have 6 dogs in my home that keep me company when they are either in college or working and I love all the dogs, my girls 2 huskies, my son's mixed breed, my Mastiff, and 2 chihuahuas are they are great companions for me and my family.

They all get along good also.