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Seizure/Assistance Dogs

Thu, 08/02/2007 - 15:59
I am wondering if anyone one here has a seizure dog? Or is getting a seizure dog? I have been thinking about a way to sleep easier at night with Kaitlyn and I am wondering if a dog that would alert us that she is having a seizure would be worth it? And is really possible?! In a weird way it seems like our cat is possibly already doing this but I am not sure. I have been looking online lately noticing that there are places that provide the training at a rather huge cost but if it really helps, maybe it would be worth it. Kaitlyn seems to have seizures while falling asleep or when just waking up so I worry about her while she is sleeping constantly. Thanks!

Comments

I would love some more

Submitted by kaitlynsmom on Mon, 2007-08-06 - 14:07
I would love some more information about it. I am really thinking about finding a way to get Kaitlyn one. I don't know if she qualifys for one or not. That is wonderful that you don't have to pay for it, and they pay for the trip. I was looking online and found one company that provides the dogs for a cost of $16,000. I couldn't believe it. Do you have to have the doctor recommend it? Or how did you get on the list? What do you do to get approved to get it? Whats the wait like? Thanks!!

Re: I would love some more

Submitted by littlebug on Mon, 2007-08-06 - 15:37
There is a form your doctor has to fill out.Its a simple one.Its just info on things like what kind of seizures she has.The applications you can down load on line or you can call canine assistants at 1-800-771-7221. Judy Morre-Pagnet(I think I spelled that right)is the director.She is very nice and will help you with the whole process if you need it. The waiting list varies depending on the state you live in and the need for the dog,as well as the age of the child.My daughter was put on a longer list because she was only four at the time we applied. Your approved for a dog just by having a seizure disorder. The trip that is paid for is for your daughter and one parent. The other parent can go but you have to pay for the airfare. They send you to the school for two weeks were they match you with a dog and then training with the dog.Everything is covered so you dont have to worry about how to afford a place to stay or anything.If you need anymore help with this please let me know.You can also email me at morgana197531@yahoo.com

Re: Seizure/Assistance Dogs

Submitted by jmccand on Thu, 2007-08-09 - 08:36
Kaitlyns Mom. Hi, we live near Canine assistants. When my daughter was in the hospital, they came by to visit with a dog that was in training. They were very helpful, and did say the wait list was quite long. They train dogs for all types of disabilities, but did say that seizures got priority. Here is the website http://canineassistance.org/ The dog is free, plus they pay for food and vet bills. However, they do ask for a donation if possible. They are located in Alpharetta, GA. I have not put my daughter on the list because currently her seizures are somewhat controlled by medication. However, I am worried when she goes to middle school and high school. In elementary, I am only dealing with one teacher and the school nurse and feel comfortable training them with what to watch for. In middle school, there are so many teachers, I am wondering if a dog would be helpful. Good luck, Lori

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