Service Animal
 

I've been thinking about getting a service or emotional support animal for a few years now. I'm just not sure how to go about it or where to start.

For at least 6 years I've been going back and forth about getting life alert, but in the end I realized that won't make much difference for my issues.

I have severe blood pressure problems, which can drop incredibly suddenly causing fainting spells. Because of this I need to drink excessive amounts of water and consume 3-5 times the amount of sodium as the average person. This cannot be managed with medication.

I also have bipolar, and rapid cycle. Aside from self harming and suffering from psychosis occasionally, I often forget to take my meds and end up not eating or drinking in bed for days due to depression. When my mood swings back I am immobilized and can't get out of bed due to my blood pressure.

I often end up waiting until someone notices that I haven't been around.

Has anyone gone through this process before? I feel rather ignorant of it. I've been researching online for a while but it's hard to find many specifics.

I'm a little hesitant about it, dogs and I have never really gotten along. I understand this is different but I cant get that out of the back of my head.

I just don't know what else to do, and I can't spend half my days in bed.

Dear manic felinemistress,

I think a service animal could be a good idea but I'm afraid it's not something I know a lot about and have any advice for you in how to get the ball rolling with this. Have you got any regular pets? If not, it may be an idea to consider getting a pet. Their feeding / cleaning routines may be able to help make a structure to your days that could coincide with your medication routine etc.

Sophie.x

Can I ask which country you're in?
If you live in the UK, look up canine partners or dogs for good.
Amongst other conditions, I have POTS so understand your blood pressure issues.
Sending love x

US, I found a lot of places that talk about 'registering' your canine, but nothing else.

POTS is actually what I have, I just usually say blood pressure issues to simplify conversations. Not many people seem to know what it is.

Oh that's a bit rubbish, I might have been able to help more if you lived over here. As far as I know, it varies state to state with which charities are available.
POTS sucks! I understand what you mean though, some doctors haven't even heard of it.
Hope you're as well as you can be xx