Conversation of the Week: RA & Support Animals
This week's discussion is on RA & Emotional Support Animals (ESA). In this forum we will discuss what exactly an Emotional Support Animal is. We also will discuss some tips for caring for an Emotional Support Animal, while living with Rheumatoid Arthritis.
I am the proud kitty mom to my emotional support animal, Hamlin. I have lived with RA for over 19 years. RA has not only physically effected my health, but also has mentally effected me.
Over those 19 years I have experienced various levels of social isolation, anxiety, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), panic attacks and depression. Hamlin's companionship helps to calm me and manage my anxiety.
The American's with Disabilities (ADA) Act defines an Emotional Support Animal as, "An animal of any species, which does not qualify as a service animal under the ADA, that a medical provider has certified can mitigate a person's psychiatric disability through companionship rather than by any specifically trained task(s)."
This means an emotional support animal is not limited to being a dog or a cat. It could be a bunny, a bearded dragon (reptile), hamster, or even a bird. Those are just a few examples, but there are many more animals you could also consider.
When choosing your emotional support animal it is important to consider your ability to care for the animal on your good days and your bad days, living with RA.
Some tips for caring for Emotional Support Animals, while living with Rheumatoid Arthritis.
-Reach out to your support system on days you might need a little extra help, caring for your animal.
-Research Mobile veterinary services in your area
-Research mobile pet grooming services in your area
-Utilize online shopping for your pet's needs
Are any of you in our community considering, an Emotional Support Animal?
Maybe you already have an Emotional Support Animal, if so would you please share any tips you have for taking care of your support animal on the good and bad days of living with RA?
Would you please share a photo of your support animal? I am excited to see them.
Emotionally I dipped really low really fast, after being diagnosed with RA 2 weeks before turning 19. I was still in college and experienced a full body flare which made it very difficult to do anything I wanted/needed to do. As soon as I started to come out of the flare I applied for and ESA that could live on campus with me. I adopted my best friend Keegan only months after my diagnosis and couldn't dream of life any other way. Nobody could ever be there for me like my pup. He knows I hurt and is always so gentle and loving. He keeps me from feeling alone and is my constant good thing in life. I understand at some point I may not be able to have a pet in my life but for the time being it's been a life saving opportunity that I'm so thankful for. A tip I would have is if you can put a trolly line up for your dog. It allows them to get exercise and have room to roam when you can't walk them. Also if you must trim your dogs nails yourself, do them after soaking their paws/bath time. Their nails soften just like ours and are much much easier to trim.
oh what a sweet pup Keegan is! It sounds like he has really made such a difference for your emotional health after being diagnosed with RA. Isn't it amazing what our animals can do for us? Thank you for sharing your story and Keegan with us. He looks like he's just the best! -- Warmly, Christine (Team Member) thank you for reaching out. I have also responded to your FB posting. Your story really touched me. Keegan you cutie pie!!!
Very much appreciate your tips, and they will benefit many in our community. Trolley line for those days that are difficult RA walking days. Your tip for nail trimming after giving a bath, is absolutely genius.
So glad you and Keegan have each other. Wishing you nothing but the best. Just Keep Swimming...Lynn Marie, "RheumatoidArthritis.net Team Member"
My new cat Ms Millie. Cinders, who made it to 18, died a while back and I was surprised and dismayed at how I started to get depressed. So, this my rescue lady Ms Millie, or Ms Meow as I sometimes call her (she's Very chatty) Having her here makes a huge difference in my overall outlook.
I was so excited to see you reached out. I always enjoy chatting with you. Ms Millie aka Ms Meow is ADORABLE!!!! If you could see me smiling looking at her and all her cuteness. Warms my heart to hear how she helps to uplift your spirits. Thanks for reaching out. You are appreciated!
Just Keep Swimming....Lynn Marie, "RheumatoidArthritis.net Team Member"also I am very sorry for the loss of your Cinders. I unexpectedly lost my kitty Luka last year. I was heartbroken. Just Keep Swimming...Lynn Marie, "RheumatoidArthritis.net Team Member"
We have a toy schnauzer who weighs 7 lbs. He loves to snuggle or sit on my lap and gives kisses. He was so easy to train and will learn new tricks even now when he is 9. Make sure you get yours from an excellent breeder whichever breed you get and I recommend a toy breed just because they are not heavy.
oh what a sweetheart! Thanks so much for sharing him with us. -- Warmly, Christine (Team Member) your support animal is adorable. What is his name? He is just posing away, like a professional model. Too cute!!!
I love your tip and suggestion of considering a toy shnauzer breed because of their smaller size and weight. So extremely important to consider when living with RA.
Really appreciate you taking the time to reach out to my forum. Your attached picture just made me happy smile.
Just Keep Swimming....Lynn Marie, "RheumatoidArthritis.net Team Member"
Here's me and Missy (it's actually her birthday today!). We've had so many fun adventures together, she keeps me grounded and sane (and pain free...mostly).
