A Service Dog for Tourette Syndrome: Kaya’s Story of Overcoming Social Challenges
- Published on:
- By: ASP Team
Kaya, a young woman in her twenties, faced life with a unique challenge: Tourette Syndrome. This condition, characterized by involuntary movements and vocalizations, made her daily interactions a bit more complicated than for most. Living in a mid-sized town in Montana, Kaya had always hoped to travel on her own, but her condition often made her think twice about stepping out of her comfort zone.
The concept of a PSD or Psychiatric Service Dog for Tourette Syndrome (also known as a PSA or Psychiatric Service Animal) came to Kaya during a routine online search. Intrigued by the possibility of having a constant, calming companion, she began researching what it would take to adopt a pet, as well as what it would take to acquire a service animal letter.
Adopting & Training Luna the Labrador Mix
Kaya’s first step was adopting Luna, a gentle Labrador mix, from the local animal shelter. A volunteer at the shelter had grown to know Luna well. So after hearing about Kaya’s condition (and her goals for a more vibrant life with her condition), he thought that Luna would not only make a great companion for Kaya, but be very teachable as well.
Kaya jumped into training Luna using American Service Pets’ I Train Academy, first completing the Obedience curriculum before moving into the Task-Training curriculum. Luna was a quick learner, and although Kaya initially kept the sessions to just 15 minutes a day, she picked up the pace a bit once she saw how fast Luna was mastering the content delivered by trainer Jas Leverette in the training modules.
Specifically, here’s what Luna was trained to helped with:
Deep Pressure Therapy (DPT)
Luna learned to apply gentle pressure by leaning or lying on Kaya during her tic episodes. This therapy proved invaluable, especially during moments of high stress or when Kaya felt an episode coming on. The calming effect of Luna’s weight and warmth helped Kaya manage her symptoms.
Alerting and Interrupting Tics
One of Luna’s most remarkable skills was her ability to alert Kaya before a tic episode. Luna became attuned to Kaya’s specific body cues, allowing her to respond proactively. For example, when Kaya’s hand began its involuntary jerking motion, Luna gently nudged her, providing a modest pressure with her paw or head. This intervention often helped Kaya regain control and prevented the escalation of her tics.
Retrieving Medication and Essential Items
Luna became an indispensable assistant, trained to retrieve essential items like medication, a phone, or a stress ball during tic episodes. Kaya found this particularly helpful as it ensured she always had quick access to her medication and other items that aided in managing her symptoms.
Mobility Support
As some of Kaya’s tics occasionally affected her balance and mobility, Luna was there to provide stability. Trained to assist with walking and navigating crowded areas, Luna helped Kaya maintain her independence. A larger breed with a special harness, Luna was the perfect companion for Kaya, offering support and confidence in each step.
Social Support
Perhaps one of the most heartwarming aspects of Luna’s role in Kaya’s life was the social support she provided. Luna acted as a social bridge, easing Kaya’s interactions with others and reducing her social anxiety. The presence of Luna often sparked conversations, creating a more understanding environment around them. This sense of companionship and security was crucial for Kaya, especially in public settings where she previously felt apprehensive.
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Getting the Service Dog for Tourette Syndrome Letter
With Kaya feeling confident in Luna’s abilities to help her manage Tourette Syndrome, she went back to the American Service Pets website to complete the questionnaire. Without having to leave her home, Kaya appreciated how convenient, quick, and easy the process of being evaluated by a licensed mental health professional was.
The day Kaya was approved for a letter approving a Psychiatric Service Dog for Tourette Syndrome marked a new beginning. With Luna’s arrival, Kaya noticed gradual changes in her life. Luna’s presence provided a calming influence, making daily tasks and social interactions less stressful. The most significant change, however, was in Kaya’s confidence. Encouraged by Luna’s support, Kaya started to entertain the idea of traveling, something she had always wanted to do but felt restricted by her condition.
Their first trip together was a significant milestone. Navigating through the airport with Luna, Kaya felt a sense of security she hadn’t experienced before. Luna’s training ensured that she remained calm and focused, providing the support Kaya needed in the bustling environment.
This story of Kaya and her Psychiatric Service Dog is a real-life example of how the right support can make a difference. Through American Service Pets, Kaya found not just a service animal but a companion who helped her navigate her condition with more confidence and less anxiety.
Kaya’s journey with Luna is a message of hope and empowerment for anyone facing similar challenges. It shows that with support, understanding, and the right resources, obstacles can be overcome, allowing individuals to pursue their dreams and expand their horizons.
If you are seeking a PSA letter for a Service Dog for Tourette Syndrome or other condition, you can start the process here.
The benefits of an Emotional Support Animal certification and a Psychiatric Service Dog certification are drastically different. Fortunately for you, American Service Pets’ network of active board certified doctor or other licensed mental health providers can help you find the right path to certification. To find out whether you need an ESA or PSD letter, take our easy, three-step Pet Owner Survey!
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