Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and what I have learned

I am not a Psychologist. My knowledge of  PTSD was minimal until Stiggy’s Dogs. I did however, do a lot of  ‘research’ during my *set up* phase. I read everything I could and felt I had a good grip on how we would tailor our program to fit the needs.  Oh the memory alone right now makes me smile my naivety…..

Nothing could prepare me for the last year, no books, articles or letters. I actually lived it. I would argue that I understand PTSD better than most Physiologist. I actually believe that I now have PTSD from what  I have learned….

I begin with the gratitude and respect that I hold for these Veterans…the ones in our Stiggy’s family, the countless I have talked /interviewed with, and the numerous emails.  The open honest conversations we have had. The raw emotions of the reality of your personal lives. The strength it takes on a daily basis, the growth, the courage you show. True warriors and heroes that they are.  And trust me, if I shared a fraction of the ‘stories’ I know….you would be in tears, in shock and *changed*. As our Veterans are, as I am, and their families.

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A Present for myself, A Compaion for a WW11 Veteran …

I would like to start off by saying that is is not the Stiggy’s Dogs motto, we pair Psychiatric Service Dogs. However, knowing that some of our dogs may not pass all credentials, we will then pair them as Therapy or Companion Animals. I receive numerous emails from people looking for Service Dogs for other needs, (Autistic Child,  someone not a Veteran,etc) Most of their personal stores are gut-wrenching, leaving me in tears. I wish I had the time and means to accommodate all these requests. The need for Service Dogs and their benefits  are becoming  increasingly sought out.

Here is an example of one of those emails. Here is also a example of love, trust, and faith.

Read the rest here…