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feeling derailed about my Idea of an SD...HELP

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mccoll95:
so I talked to some SD programs about the reasons I would persue an SD . (deteriorating shoulders and need to transfer a little less due to bad skin integrity).

Every program I talked to said I was a great candidate. I've thought of how a dog could assist me, made my lists, done my research got on these boards and felt really good about it....until..

I'm on these other baords for a disability similar (but not exactly) like mine. Lots of full time wheelchair users. Anyway there is this particular nurse who flat out said she didnt' think a dog would help. she's the only one so far but she was so blatent about it. She's a nurse so I wondered if she was right, but i've been so sure for so long.

Angie:
 :wink:

No one can make that decision except for you. You won't know until you give it a try for yourself. You may perfectly well go to team training and decide it is not for you. I've been in team training when that has happened and someone just decided it wasn't for them.

10 years from now you may decide it is no longer for you. I'm starting to fall out of favor with having working dogs after 15 years. Thats fine. Nothing wrong with it.

I say if you are interested in a dog and you qualify, you have nothing to lose by trying.

If I listened to random people I would not be driving a car, working or leaving my house.

Kirsten:
Has this nurse actually treated you professionally?  If not, then her opinions of your abilities and needs are worth about as much as fake certification purchased over the internet.  I mean, if it's just some person on the internet, then you don't even know if she's really a nurse.  Or even a woman.

Stick with the experts you know.

AshertoAsher:

--- Quote ---deteriorating shoulders and need to transfer a little less due to bad skin integrity
--- End quote ---

ummm...this is the reason a lot of people in wheelchairs get a SD. In fact, I think that maintaining your physical integrity is THE reason people in wheelchairs get a SD (besides retrieving).

Honestly, only you and your treatment team know what's going on with you. This nurse online has never met you and never spoken to your doctors. Just ignore her and do what you and your doctor think is right for you.

Do you think that every person (or even every medical professional) is going to think that a dog is right for me? I can hike and jump and climb and swim (most of the time). I see (with correction) and hear perfectly. I don't have seizures, fainting spells, or moments of complete disorientation. What do I need a dog for?!

I'm getting a dog because: 1) my doctors have stated that I am indeed disabled after I carefully showed them the ADA and supplemental materials about the standard for disability under the ADA. 2) I carefully drew up a task list and went over it with each of my doctors. Each has stated that they think that the tasks my dog is going to perform will significantly increase my independence and functioning. 3) I personally know myself and my illness better than anyone else out there and I think that a dog will increase my independence and functioning.

Don't let one person who doesn't know what she's talking about rain on your parade. If you (and your medical professionals) think this is right for you, charge ahead.   

Roxie:
How many people support you?

Do you want to use a SD? Think it will help?

Why are you worried about 1 person being unsupportive. Nurse - schmurse! How/why would she be able to evaluate your personal/medical need with any accuracy to be able to derail you?

Not a popularity contest! You need to do what you believe is in your best interest!

You are the expert in what you need for you!! Go for it with gusto!!!

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