I'm getting one. They are currently being trained by an organization for me. It will be for medical alert and some mobility. Mostly due to a rapid decline in lung function over the past few years.

Reera what will they be alerting if you don’t mind me asking?

No worries, I have a rare form of dysautonomia (that isn't an option in the app yet haha) that causes my HR to spike under minimal exertion. They believe it is linked to my poor lung function too. Basically I get out of breath and pass out if I do anything that requires a decent amount of energy/oxygen. So the dog will alert to the changes in my heart rate and breathing patterns before I fall or pass out. They can also get my medications, brace when I'm weak and do basic service dog things like DPT, open doors etc.

My care team opted for this as a last ditch effort to keep me out of the hospital as much as possible. I have basically no sense of smell (not covid related) and was unable to determine when I would get to the point where I would pass out or fall. The dog can smell triggers that make my lungs act up like smoke and also my HR changes then be trained to bring medications according to breathing pattern changes/smell changes (think like coughing = rescue inhaler and HR =pills)

Okay that’s really fascinating! I’m sorry that’s happening to you but I really value the information! As someone who has POTS and asthma I can relate on some level with you. I never thought about a care team opting for one for you so I’m glad you have a team that tries to do right by you! I often simply don’t feel bad enough off to warrant a service dog but I still feel like some of the things you mentioned would definitely benefit me and my quality of life

It's something to think about for sure. I will say, if you have a history of breathing issues then they will often make you prove you aren't allergic to animals to get a service dog. The program required it and truthfully my pulmonologist also said they wanted to make sure too. I had major allergy testing done and so I was good to go. Nothing for pets.

Good to know! Thank you 🤗

Service dogs are more for medical and disabled, if you need one for emotional reasons then thats a service animal

*emotional support animal

hi we’re really alike - i’d love to connect 💕

Kata I am disabled which is why I’m wondering about a service animal though I feel like having one would naturally be an emotional support in a way. However, I’m definitely more looking for the health/medical benefit of one!

Hi magalito! I love connecting! Feel free to talk to me about anything ❤️