Jodipug

HI Everyone! I did do quite a long post, replying to everyone, but it didn't upload for some reason. Firstly, thank you so much to everyone who has shown interest, made comment, or offered advice. You have helped more than you could imagine. We've narrowed down the search to a few breeds; Havanese, Lowchen and Miniature Schnauzer. We've had a few really bad weeks with my daughter, and I started back at work after 6 months on Carer's Leave. Today, whilst my daughter and I were having a snuggle in bed with our dogs, I checked Puppies for Sale on Dogzonline. It seems everyone's got puppies for sale! I've emailed a few breeders about puppies available, and have had contact from 2 already! There is a 4.5 month old Havanese male that sounds perfect - past the really 'silly' stage. I'll keep you all updated on the progress. We're really excited and its great to raise the awareness of Assistance Dogs in the Dogzonline community. Thanks again. Jodi and Sienna xx

Great advice Ruralpug. The hypoallergenic train of thought is more on trying for a low-shedding breed, because of the multiple homes in use. We have a pug and a Pugalier, and don't care about the masses of fur around the house. Her other main Carer HATES fur and out of respect for her, we are hoping for a low-shed breed. From what I've read on Minddog.com, the biggest thing is the mother's temperament, so a puppy in WA, that we could 'meet' would be ideal

Thanks SO much! I've been in touch with Minddog already, and have been reading diligently. We're trying to get a pup now, so that he/she is ready (must be 6 months old and sterilised) to begin training with Minddog) to start. We also have a tricky situation, in that my daughter, Sienna, and the dog, will be moving between 3 homes on almost a daily rotation, as Sienna needs constant supervision. Again, any advice is welcome. Thanks! Jodi

Hi everyone! Long time dog owner, first time to the forums. My question is...does anyone have any experience with Mental Health Assistance Dogs? My daughter turned 17 today. She has an eating disorder and Borderline Personality Disorder. For the past 3.5 years, she has suffered greatly, and the treatment for her is hard to find. She has not been able to go to school, in any format, for over 2 years. Each day is a massive struggle. We've been researching MH Assistance Dogs, and there are over 700 in Australia. They have access everywhere, much like a Seeing Eye Dog. They can be trained to do such things as; reminders for medication, grounding during panic attacks, calming through anxiety and depression, etc. We would like to purchase a puppy/young dog to be trained as an Assistance Dog. We're not sure on which breed would be best, so advice is very welcome. Ideally, we're looking for a small breed, hypoallergenic, easy to train, loyal, and loving. Thoughts, ideas, advice, experience? Please share. Thanks!