My father is a vet & has the start of dementia. I read that they now have companion dogs who help them. How do I get him a service dog?

NEADS assistance dog services located in Princeton Ma. Many years ago my daughter was blessed with an amazing dog from them. He was a true companion and a source of comfort and joy for her in addition to aiding her with difficult tasks she was unable to do on her own. They do an excellent job with matching the individual to the right dog, so that a long lasting bond will ensue. Extensive training is involved and you must be willing to spend time on their campus. It IS hard work. Depending on the reason why the dog is needed will determine the length of your stay. These are great people who care immensely for the success of each client and the dog chosen to partner with them. If you are fortunate to get one of these wonderful animals....your dad's world will be a better place. Best of luck.

Lol! Gosh I love the internet...

Here you go:

https://www.vadogs.org

Don't get his hopes up until you've found out much more about the scheme and whether they can help your father in particular, but never say never. It is *astonishing* what dogs can be trained to assist with.

I once met a Staffordshire bull terrier who was responsible for a man who suffered from epilepsy and handled his owner's partial absence seizure with aplomb in spite of the ignorance of the person (me) he (the dog) approached for help.

Contact Southeastern Guide Dogs in Palmetto Fl, they have a Vet program that covers much more than issues relating to sight. One of the trained dogs that I benefacted was placed with a Vietnam Vet who had lost both his legs and suffered from PTSD. There is no charge whatsoever for the recipient, everything is free. Might be a starting point, give them a call.

Start with his doctor. You’ll need to get an order. But, be aware that there is a waiting list and in most cases, service animals are not free. You can also contact the VA or Wounded Warriors.

Off the bat - I don’t have an answer as to how to get your father a service dog.

I did want to say that I think it’s a nice idea. I adore dogs. Honestly- I prefer dogs to most people. Because I do so love them I wanted to ask if you’ve really thought it through.

Regularly there are posts here regarding folks with dementia and their pets. Issues come up about the individual with dementia either forgetting to feed their dog or cat - that or they are over feeding them and/or feeding them things that are inappropriate and even dangerous. As you are right next door will you be helping to keep an eye out for the dogs well-being?

Also - sorry to sound insensitive- but given your fathers age - what will happen to the dog should your father need to move to a care facility or pass away - will you be willing to take ownership of the dog?

All of that said - I will warn you that service animals tend to be very expensive. Once, I looked into getting a dog from an organization that trained them to help individuals with Autism. The dogs were $10,000 and their was a looog waiting list.

Still, if this is something you really want to do after weighing the pros and cons - try starting with googling guide dogs for the blind. These groups are pretty much in every major city and someone there ought to be able to point you in the right direction.

Best of luck. There’s nothing like the love, loyalty and companionship of a good dog. At least, that’s my opinion.