Where did you serve and what did you do?
Navy – multiple deployments across several different continents in both northern and southern hemispheres
Tell us how your dog is helping you continue #StillServing in your community.
Not my dog, I have two ESA cats. Dealing with PTSD my counselor and therapist both at first had me on mood stabilizing medications that really messed me up. In my ultimate goal to not be on medication all of my life, it was suggested I get an Emotional Support Animal. I love dogs but my living situation at the time didn’t allow for a dog (I know ESA are different). So, my therapist suggested a cat. Calming by nature and very in tune with my moods I found my cat (now two) could read when my ptsd was building in my mind and would jump in my lap and force cuddle me. Snapping me out of my own mind. Recently I have found myself constantly talking to other vets in my area and helping them be someone to talk to as others did for me. Often with my cat in a harness and hanging out I find they often inspire my brothers and sisters to find a loving animal of their own seeing how much my cats have helped me
Why do you do it?
Simply put, when I thought there was nothing to live for, no one to care for, and no one caring for me…. Suicide attempts and cutting off the world was all I knew…. A cat came into my life and saved me from myself. My ESA helped me find my way home years after I physically came home. Something I wish every military member has the chance and opportunity to do….come home. My cats help me daily live and love life. I share this with all of my brothers and sisters I can who haven’t quite made it home like I was able to do