Emotional Support Dogs: The Good, The Bad and how to avoid the Ugly Paula Bergeron

Paula Bergeron - Grafton, NH

The term: Emotional Support Dog is relatively new in our vocabulary but the fact that our dogs do much to uplift our mental health has been known for some time. Some studies show people with pets tend to have better physical health, are better able to relax, and suffer less from loneliness. Personally, my dogs make me laugh….a lot… and we all know that's good for whatever ails ya.

E.S.D. or emotional support dog is a term used to identify that a dog is with you for a reason, that reason is to help the human cope, most commonly it is in reference to coping in a public setting. What the dog does specifically for their human companion varies widely, but is it clear by the shear number of them, that for many having their dogs accompany them in the wider world makes a difference in their ability to live their best lives.

Emotional Support Dogs differ from Therapy Dogs and Service Dogs in many ways. Therapy Dogs need to pass a test to make sure they have the temperament and skills to behave well, be gentle and safe in whatever environment they enter. Service Dogs are handpicked for temperament and are expertly trained in specific skills to assist humans who have physical or medical needs. Emotional support dogs are neither hand-picked nor are they required to pass any exam or be trained to perform their tasks. And this sets us up for…..

To have an emotional support dog accompany a human in public environments the only requirement is a physician's agreement that an ESD would be helpful for the human. The ability of the dog to tolerate these stressful environments is often not taken into consideration. Dogs put into situations they are not equipped to handle can result in stress behaviors such as barking, chewing, destruction of property, lunging at other dogs and people, and dangerous biting. These ugly disasters could lead to the ban of emotional support dogs in public places, which would be such a shame, as many provide an incredible service.

It is important to understand that not all dogs can cope with the stress of busy human environments. Too many dogs are chosen because they are cute, or because they have been through similar trauma, or medial issue believing this will lead to deeper understanding and bond. This line of thinking puts undue stress on the anxious or traumatized dog leading to unwanted behavior.

When looking for an emotional support dog do your homework. Choose a confident dog who has a steady temperament, is physically healthy, and has had a positive puppyhood. If you already have a dog invest your time and efforts into training. Have a goal to attain a Canine Good Citizen certificate and slowly expose your dog to the environments you want them navigate. You may need help to accomplish these tasks, look to family, friends, professional trainers, behaviorists, breeders, and veterinarians, to guide you in your choices and training.

Having an emotional support dog is a powerful strategy that opens the world up for many people. If you are contemplating getting or using your dog for emotional support, please prepare and train your dog so you both feel success and enjoyment as you navigate the world with more confidence together. Happy Training, Paula Bergeron and the gang at Good Dogma

Paula Bergeron and the gang at Good

Dogma embrace a holistic approach to bringing balance to your dog's behavioral issues. Exercise, training, relaxation, massage, grooming, play, socialization, and energy healing are incorporated into your dog's routine. www.Goodogma.com Summer 2021