Pets for carers

When our daughter became unwell with psychosis, things were pretty dreadful for the whole family, including younger siblings. We had to move our family to be able to get the right help for her.

After we moved, our daughter suggested we get a puppy. I wasn't very happy with the idea! With hospital admissions, counselling appointments and caring for a very unwell teenager I thought the last thing I needed was a dog. It just seemed like it would be more work for me.

We eventually did get a puppy, who has grown into a beautiful gentle dog. Yes, she has given me some extra work, but has given us back so much more!

At first, she helped me by staying with my daughter in her room. She just seemed to know when something wasn't going well and would come and get me. As my daughter's condition improved, our dog attached herself to me.

She has an uncanny ability to know when any member of the family is feeling anxious and will come and sit with them. I find just patting her melts away so much of my anxiety. We now have another dog and they are both great company. I think our dogs have taught us so much about "living in the moment" and no matter how bad we feel they are there for us.

I wonder if anyone else has been helped in this way by their pets?