Suffering with a social anxiety disorder can greatly impact quality of life, overcoming social anxiety disorder should be a priority. A lot of people have taken a simple step to overcome their anxiety disorder and take control of their life.
There has been a lot of research into the connection between people and pets and one of the discoveries has been how valuable that relationship can be in overcoming emotional illness like anxiety. Pets bring calmness and a sense of wellbeing. A social anxiety service dog can combat social anxiety in their owners.
Support Dogs Are Not Just for the Physically Disabled or Impaired
When people think of service dogs, they think of dogs that are trained to help the blind or physically impaired. While it is true service dogs of this nature have made a difference in millions of lives that is not all dogs can be trained to do.
Technically according to the law there is a difference between service animals and support animals. Service animals are trained to perform specific tasks for someone that is disabled like lead a blind person. Support animals do not have to be able to perform a specific task for you they are there for emotional support.
A service dog for social anxiety does not need or require any specific training, they are simply there for your comfort and to make you feel more confident in a social setting. Social anxiety dog service is all about making you feel emotionally well.
These types of support animals can be support animals for PTSD sufferers as well. While the American Disabilities Act only recognizes dogs and miniature horses as service animals however the Fair Housing Act and Air Carrier Access Act have different definitions of a support animal. Local laws also differ and, in many instances, recognize a therapy cat for depression as well as other animals under “special protections” for tenants and more.Navigating Overcoming Social Anxiety Disorder with Your Pet
Thanks to new laws and social awareness campaigns ESA dogs, cats and more are readily accepted and protected. Getting your animal certified as an ESA can mean special protections for your pet when it comes to housing and more. According to the ADA (American with Disabilities Act) your emotional support animal is allowed “to accompany people with disabilities in all areas where members of the public are allowed to go.” That means where you go your pet goes, doctors’ offices, restaurants, grocery stores, everywhere!
The certification process starts with a letter stating a need for the animal. The process is relatively simple to get your animal certified and to enjoy all the protections. You do not need to provide specific training details, they do not have to go through special classes, your ESA dog can be a shelter dog!
Overcoming social anxiety disorder can be a challenge but if you have your furry friend at your side you will be up for the challenge.
