Service animals develop a deep bond with the people they are there to help.
Animals are able to sense different things happening with humans, sometimes even before the human is aware that there is a problem. Very often people find they do not need an animal with special training to alert them when they are about to have a seizure. Usually if a person's pet is able to sense a seizure they will respond as a natural occurrence by having their owner lie down, for example. For some people who do not already have a pet, however, it is important to seek out a pet who can alert them before a seizure occurs. Most officially trained seizure assistance or alert animals are dogs.
Instructions
1. Contact local veterinarians and see what recommendations they have for speaking with trainers or organizations in your area. Veterinarians may also be able to put you into contact with other people in your area who have been in the same situation.
2. Research trainers and organizations thoroughly. You can do this through the Better Business Bureau. You can also do this by requesting to speak with former clients. Many organizations have a program established whereby you can speak with former customers in order to find out what to expect during your own experience.
3. Decide whether you want a seizure-assistance pet or a pet trained to forewarn you about impending seizures. Some pets are trained for both sets of circumstances; however, there is a difference. A seizure-assistance pet is a pet who will stand guard during a seizure or who will get help for the person having the seizure. A pet who is trained to warn of an impending seizure will typically make sure that the you remain seated or even lie down so that you are not surprised by the seizure.
4. Follow your chosen organization's path to adoption. Each organization or trainer will have a different set of steps for you to follow in order to adopt a service animal. Some may require that you attend a certain amount of training so that you know communicate effectively with your service animal.
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