Assistance dog

Ragesht

Hello people, I am investigating the trials and tribulations of squiring an assistance dog to make my life bit easier to live, following a divorce, I am a wheelchair bound MS patient, any suggestions welcome.

Cher_Alumni

Hi @Ragesht

This Assistance Dogs UK website has details about the charities who train and match assistance dogs.   If you click on the different icons on the webpage the relevant contact information should pop up!  Unfortunately, other members have mentioned that there are long waiting lists   You can read about this on the "Could an assistance dog help you?" thread.

I think it's a great idea though so don't be disheartened.  Please keep us updated with how you get on.

Ragesht

Thank you Cher

Cher_Alumni

No problem and I'm sorry to hear about your divorce.  Are you managing okay?

Ragesht

Yes thanks, I am a big boy now!! Lol

Cher_Alumni

  You can do it but remember we are here if ever you fancy a natter or need help! 

Ragesht

Thank you

Chloe_Scope

Hi @Ragesht, I think assistance dogs can be great! Is there particular things you would want it to help you with? This can help narrow down the organisations to research.  

Ragesht

Hi Chloe, thanks for the question, I am a wheelchair bound person and my right hand cannot grip a pen, hence unable to write, one of the first things that comes to mind is security, next is picking things up and companionship.
and I suppose those are the main ones at present.

janer1967

Hi there 

I understand you are looking into an assistance dog but please bear in mind your ability to care for the dog too 

I am wheelchair bound too and would like a dog but cant work out how I could take it out clean up after flirting take to vets and stuff 

But I am sure you would get advice around this 

Ragesht

hi Jane, thanks for message, yes, your question is a thoughtful one, and I agree, I might struggle with that chore and I suppose I should be positive but realistically speaking, I am not going to get better!! So perhaps I need to go back to the drawing back.

janer1967

Just read my post back predictive text should have said clean up after toilet not flirting 

Have you thought about a cat I know they wont assist but can be good company and can also fend more for themselves 

Ragesht

yes thanks.

Chloe_Scope

Hi @Ragesht, you might find Canine Partners a good place to start. They are able to train assistance dogs to do most of the things that you have described.

Ragesht

Thank you Chloe.

Chloe_Scope

No problem @Ragesht! If you choose to apply then please let us know how you get on.

I'm sure there will be other members who will find the info helpful.

Ragesht

for sure Chloe, I would also put myself forward as the person to help you achieve your canine partner.