How a Service Dog Changed My Life

Living with a disability has unexpected challenges. I know, having one myself. My doctors and therapists have been invaluable in helping me navigate the physical and mental challenges, but I needed something more. Something deeper. Something constant. With research, I discovered the answer…a service dog.

“Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor: If either of them falls down, one can help the other up.” – Ecclesiastes 4:9-10

This scripture inspired me to write about my service dog, Storm. She is everything that normalizes my day-to-day life. She has become a constant presence in my life, reminding me that I am never truly alone.

Here’s my story of how this incredible partnership began and continues today. Read on to learn how Storm has reshaped my life in unimaginable ways.

The Power of Partnership: What Ecclesiastes Teaches Us

Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 highlights the importance of partnership and mutual support. It reminds me of the benefits of having someone, or something, to lean on in times of difficulty. Having a companion makes a real difference.

We were not meant to go through life alone. Making connections is critical to our development. This scripture speaks to our need for companionship in good times and bad.

My Storm is the perfect service dog because she deeply fulfills these needs. She lifts me up and reminds me that I am not alone in this journey.

My Getting a Service Dog

It’s difficult living with a psychiatric disability. I felt alone and isolated from society. The emotional burdens were overwhelming. I was blessed to have a dutiful partner and wonderful doctors and therapists, but there were gaps in my day-to-day life. It was clear that I needed something to address those needs, to help me through my struggles.

Exploring Solutions

Searching for answers, I considered several options:

Rely on my partner, family, and friends.
Adopting assistive tools and technologies.
Research community resources.

Through this process, the idea of getting a service dog first surfaced. I did online research and spoke with my therapist at length. Watching YouTube videos of service dog handlers made it look easy. Was it for me?

Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 spoke deeply to me during this time of introspection. Having a service dog held promise. The verse about partnership and mutual support got me thinking. Am I as ready to give as I am to receive?

I hesitated, wondering if I could manage the responsibility of having a dog again. Through introspection, prayer, and research, I realized the answer was “Yes.” That decision gave me the clarity and courage to pursue this life-changing path.

Finding “The Perfect” Service Dog

I wanted a Jack Russell Terrier like my first dog, Odie. Joe convinced me that this miniature terror was for outdoor life. They love being in the woods daily, chasing small creatures and digging holes. They love their family and don’t take to strangers. In other words, keep dreaming.

Back to the internet…

Almost all the recommended psychiatric service dogs were Labrador Retrievers. They have the right temperament, energy level, and intelligence for the job. The downside? They’re popular and expensive.

My first thought was to adopt a dog. There are so many dogs out there needing a home. Joe and I contacted several agencies and went to many dog adoption events. No love connections.

After a few months, we found Buck. He was a beautiful brown Labrador Retriever puppy with lots of energy. He loved Joe with lots of licks. I was impressed with his skills on the leash. A match made in heaven. Or so we thought.

Our application was declined. No reason was given. We were crushed.

I gave up, but Joe continued the search. Every day, he went online looking for dogs. On December 23, 2023, he came upon a picture of a beautiful Black Lab puppy. We fell in love with her soulful eyes. We called the seller, who lived about 30 minutes away. Less than 12 hours later, Storm was ours.

How My Service Dog Became My Partner

From the start, my relationship with Storm has provided the assistance that Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 describes. She holds me up when I stumble, both literally and figuratively. Whether it’s offering physical aid to help me get up from the floor or providing comfort during PTSD episodes, my service dog is always there.

She has made a difference.

Physical Support: She helps me to balance, helping me transition from using a walker.
Emotional Comfort: Helps me to recognize emotional distress, intervening in moments of anxiety and panic attacks.
Social Connection: Reduces social anxiety and encourages interactions with others.

Since getting my service dog, I have gained a new sense of independence. Storm is more than a helper; she’s a true partner who helps me everywhere we go. My dog reflects God’s promise of partnership and love. She’s always ready to lift me up when I need it most.

Lessons Learned and Gratitude

Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 reminds us of the mutual support and partnership: “If either of them falls down, one can help the other up.” My journey with Storm exemplifies this relationship. She provides unwavering support and has been a profound blessing. She lifts me up in both joyful and challenging moments.

What have I learned? Both scripture and situation have taught me that we all need someone, or something, to lean upon when times get rough. Finding that support can transform your life, whether it’s family, a trusted friend, or even a service animal.

I encourage you to embrace the power of companionship.

Never walk alone!