What tasks can Service Dogs be trained to do to assist with mental impairments?
Psychiatric Service Dogs can be trained to do many things. Here are just a few examples of their amazing abilities. • Warm handler’s body during a panic attack • Mitigate paranoia with “reality testing” • Interrupt dissociative episodes or flashbacks • Enter home or building before the handler and turn on lights • Survey the premises for anything out of the ordinary • Alert handler to take medication at a specific time • Recognize repetitive behaviors and provide persistent distraction • Provide balance and weight-bearing support For a complete list, please read, “Service Dog Tasks for Psychiatric Disabilities”.
