Service Dogs

I knew that service/therapy dogs existed for autistic children, but apparently now people are starting to realize that they can also be of benefit for the mentally ill. They are called Psychiatric Service Dogs, and can apparently do such things as prevent the owner from engaging in compulsive behaviors, comforting the owner/bringing him out of depression, etc. It is all very interesting.

A Joyful Activity

Last night we had knitting at someone's house who had a dog. We knitted outside. The dog's name is Barley and is very fun to play with. I chased him, he chased me, and we had a great time. My asthma didn't even bother me too much. The dog owner says running around is his favorite game, and said thank you for wearing him out. I felt happier than I had felt in a long time. Sometimes I think that if I had a dog, I would have no need for antidepressants - although I know it isn't true. Sigh . . .