The Problem With Emotional Support Animals

Recently, a friend on Facebook made a post about ESAs, and while a lot of what they said was perfectly reasonable, I see the subject a little differently. Of course, I see most things a little differently, because I am neurodivergent, and honestly, that’s my point in making this blog entry.

This post was in response to an incident where somebody had an ESA in a store and it had an altercation with a service animal. The ESA was not leashed.

I have an issue with the statement. “. . .the second your ESA dog acts a fool in public, that particular store will have no choice but to ban all animals, regardless of their status.”

Yeah, but NO.

A store can ban ESA animals, and they’d be justified in doing so if there was an issue with ESA animals, but because of the Americans with Disabilities Act, they couldn’t ban service animals (except on an individual basis in the case of misbehavior), so that statement is overblown.

And the statement: “Don’t ruin it for them with your mutt you rescued 3 months ago to help with your depression.” First, that’s devaluing some awesome animals, including the mixed breeds that are certified service animals. There are loads of them. Also, unfortunately, American society has stigmatized mental health disorders, and this is just another example of how depression is often viewed as just another word for sadness. Depression can be a very serious condition that makes everyday life a struggle just to stay alive. An emotional support animal’s ability to help someone suffering from it shouldn’t be underestimated or invalidated.

Another thing ESAs are helpful for are people with PTSD or autism. And given the fact that box stores like Target and Walmart are so overstimulating with the miles of product, the colors, the noise, the crowds and the fluorescent lights, it’s perfectly reasonable for an autistic person to have an ESA or PSA in a store with them.

I have an ESA who keeps me grounded and focused. She is always leashed, and when she accompanies me indoors, I carry her. I keep her registration with me, and she wears a vest in public. Numerous times men have disdainfully said to me “Anybody can put a vest on their dog and call it an ESA.” Except, that’s not exactly true. You can’t register a dog as an ESA without a document from a registered mental health professional: which can’t happen unless you are an established patient and the MHP thinks an ESA would be helpful. There is also a cost involved for registration. Do some people find a way around the legalities? Of course they do — there is always someone breaking rules to ruin things for others –that’s typical human behavior. But I still think ESAs get a bum rap.

Walking With Your Pup: Why It’s Important

Up on the Woof welcomes guest pet blogger Cindy Aldridge.

Everyone seems to want to get fit, but humans aren’t the only ones who need regular exercise. Life may pull you in a lot of directions, but your pup can help you get in the exercise you need, too. Your four-legged family member needs to stay active, and letting him out a few times a day to potty and sniff around the yard just won’t cut it.

Taking your dog out for a walk might not seem like a big deal, but when you look at the benefits, you will realize how important those walks with your pup really are. No matter the dog’s age, Up on the Woof wants to help you both achieve your goals.

 Photo Credit: Samson Katt via Pexels

Prevents Health Issues 

One of the most obvious signs of an under-exercised dog is obesity, and with over half of the nation’s dogs qualifying as obese or overweight according to the American Kennel Club, it’s time to start taking action. Unfortunately, obesity can cause health issues that can’t be seen with the naked eye, such as osteoarthritis, diabetes, thyroid issues, heart disease, high blood pressure, and respiratory conditions.

What’s more is that research cited by the American Veterinary Medical Association shows that obese dogs may have a shortened life span of as much as 2 ½ years compared to dogs who are at a normal, healthy weight. As a dog owner and lover, every moment with your pooch is cherished, so if you can add time back to the clock, why wouldn’t you? Walking is a great way to prevent obesity, but if your dog is already tipping the scales, it is best to talk with the vet first about the best way to approach diet and exercise.

Reduces Behavioral Problems

Contrary to popular belief, there is no such thing as a bad dog. Your dog doesn’t chew on the couch cushions or scratch the paint off the door to make you mad. Quite simply, it is often the case that your dog is bored and needs to get outside to release all that built-up energy. On your walk, keep things fun and fresh, and engage your pooch mentally by taking different routes or brushing up on commands. Allow your dog to take in his environment by using his nose to determine who’s been in the area.

Your dog has individual needs, but those needs will often be driven by his heritage. Knowing your dog’s genetics can give you some insights into behaviors and energy levels. For instance, if your dog seems to pace and nip at your coffee table, it could be he inherited herding instincts that aren’t being satisfied. Terriers, on the other hand, feel a need to dig.

Unfortunately, your dog might not be the best leash walker. If your pooch is prone to pulling, it is best to use a nylon, cotton, or leather leash or even a no pull harness rather than a retractable leash, as the retractable variety encourages pulling and reduces your control. By teaching your dog the proper way to walk, you will look forward to those daily walks rather than dread them.

If your pup is still having behavioral issues, it’s time to contact a professional trainer. A trainer can teach you how to bond and communicate effectively with your dog through positive reinforcement.  

Find Alternatives

It doesn’t matter how many hints your dog drops that he wants to go outside, work and other responsibilities can be a time drain. Rather than let your pooch suffer the consequences of your busy schedule, you can bring in a professional dog walker to give your dog the walk he deserves at the pace and length he needs.

If a dog walker isn’t available, you can also let your pup work out his excess energy in the yard if you own your own home. To make this work, a fence is a must-have, and you should never tie up your dog to keep him from wandering. If you take your pup for neighborhood walks, be sure to pack some waste bags and some DIY natural sanitizer. No one likes encountering dog waste on the sidewalk, so be a good neighbor and pick up after your dog.

Invite a Walkies Buddy

Dogs benefit from socialization, as do we humans. To that end, consider connecting with a friend who has a compatible dog. You can even help each other with pet walking and play dates when things get busy! Make outings more fun with doggie-oriented invitations. You can design beautiful invitations and add your personal touch without spending a penny using free online templates. Choose one that fits your party’s vibe, customize it, and send it out via snail mail or text. Either way, it’s a chance to spread some warm fuzzies to your friends and their furkids.

Get Out with Your Pup

Dogs need those daily walks for their physical and mental health. Plus, your pooch is always up for an adventure, making them the best workout partner. If time isn’t on your side, bring in a dog walker to ensure your fur baby gets the exercise he needs. Above all else, keep calm and walk on!

For more dog-related musings from Ari Wulff, subscribe to Up on the Woof today!

New Adventures in PA Animal Rescue

Hello Friends.

I haven’t been very good about keeping up with Up On The Woof over the past year, and I apologize for that. . . however, my life has undergone major changes. Let’s catch up:

You may be aware that I was the sole caregiver for my partner for the past seven years, which took a toll on the time I had for writing and being creative, and just about anything else that I wanted to do. Her health began to deteriorate rather quickly in January, and I began clearing our belongings out of the cabin we lived in at the Cuyahoga Valley National Park for twenty-one years. In February, I moved her to a nursing facility and gave the Park notice that I’d be moving out. There was so much to do! I had to get rid of things we had accumulated during our 38 years together, decide what I’d be taking with me, and find a place of my own. Dalene died on May 9, 2023, and on the 19th I moved to the Pittsburgh area with our one remaining dog, and a cat. To say my life is different, is a gross understatement.

One of the things I had been missing over the past seven years, was involvement in animal rescue. Because all of the apartments I looked at only allowed a maximum of two pets, it means that I can’t foster. I wanted to be active in rescue again, and to be around dogs, who are the joy of my life. So, I was thinking that after I was settled, I’d look into transport, or I’d contact Animal Rescue Corps, and see how I could go about getting trained to work with them during national animal emergencies. Somehow — I wish I could remember how — I heard about CART: County Animal Response Team. It is a group here in my new county that does the same sort of thing as ARC. They are trained to respond to animal emergencies, and dispatched via 911 or are requested by Police or Fire on the scene of an incident. Training with them would make me a first responder for animals! CART teams in PA are branches of PASART: Pennsylvania State Animal Response Team. These groups were formed after Katrina, because in the aftermath of the hurricane was the realization that many animals had been left behind, and also that many people hadn’t evacuated because there was no place to go with their pets. The Federal Government passed the PETS Act. This opened the door for emergency animal groups to form that would work in conjunction with FEMA and The Red Cross to get pets to safety in the event of an emergency.

CART isn’t only about major disasters, though. We can be requested by police and fire when they have a situation that involves an animal, such as an auto accident or pets that have been in a house fire. The group I joined has been dispatched to round up farm animals on the freeway when the truck they were in overturned, hoarding situations, horses stuck in mud, an animal that fell in a well, rescuing animals after a flood, after a tornado, all sorts of things!

Training has been intensive, and is ongoing. I had to pass three FEMA classes to qualify, and then attended CART training classes in animal handling, equipment, first aid, animal behavior, lost pet recovery, and how to set up an emergency animal shelter. There are still many classes ahead, and also field work. I was activated as a team member at the beginning of October, and was dispatched for the first time. Several rescue groups responded to the incident, which involved the removal of 49 animals. It was a pretty big case for my first experience. There were dogs, cats, ducks, chickens, a cockatiel and a turkey. Training kicked right in, and I was able to be an effective team member. All the animals were removed safely and transported to foster homes, rescues, or kennels. It was very satisfying! I’m looking forward to future rescue experiences with CART.

In addition to extensive training, CART provides some equipment to their volunteers, but there’s a lot of things that we still have to buy for ourselves. I have a wish list on amazon of things I still need, if any of you would like to help me gear up. You can access it here: GEAR UP.

Quality Care in Your Senior Dog’s Twilight Years

Dogs are a source of joy, loyalty, and love. It’s only natural to want your pet to enjoy health and happiness as a beloved member of the family. As with humans, your pet’s needs change with age. A dog’s average lifespan varies by size and breed. Large dogs are generally considered seniors after age 6, while smaller breeds acquire the senior label between ages 7 and 10. But you can help your pet live a long, happy life with appropriate care. Today, Up on the Woof shares some tips and resources to help you be the best pet-parent in your companion’s senior years.

Tailored Nutrition

Your senior pet has different nutritional needs than a younger animal. Older animals aren’t as active as their younger counterparts, so it’s important to provide essential nutrients without excessive calories or fat. Many pet food brands sell specific products for seniors. Health issues also affect nutritional requirements. 

Indoor Adjustments

Senior dogs may develop arthritis and stiff joints. Don’t force your pet to get up or move quickly. Give your dog plenty of time to wake up and stretch before a morning walk. Senior dogs may also struggle to jump or climb onto beds and furniture. Consider installing a ramp or a set of stairs so that your pet can reach preferred sleeping areas easily. 

Outdoor Safety and Exercise

Most senior dogs still enjoy their favorite activities. A few alterations and precautions let your pet spend time outdoors safely and comfortably. Light exercise can help your senior pet stay active and healthy, but don’t push a tired animal to continue an activity, and plan frequent rest breaks. A stroller may be useful for long walks or exploring parks. Your dog can stay out longer and enjoy the journey while resting in a stroller. It never hurts to get some advice from the experts before investing in new pet products; click here to find tips and objective reviews that you can trust.

Fences and Enclosures

A sturdy fence is the best way to keep your dog safe in the yard. Fencing also keeps wild animals and other dogs out. Some pre-made wire or plastic enclosures can be set up and moved easily. These enclosures usually cover small areas, and they aren’t permanent. You can also fence in your entire yard.

Younger dogs may try to jump over or dig underneath fences, but senior dogs usually don’t have the urge, or the energy, to escape. This gives you more flexibility to choose a fence for functional and decorative purposes. A professional fence company can help you choose materials and designs to complement your home’s aesthetics. Fencing also adds value to your property, so keep track of receipts for materials and labor. Take pictures before and after installation, especially if you’re thinking about selling your home. 

Veterinary Care

Regular checkups help your pet enjoy the highest possible quality of life. The American Animal Hospital Association recommends that senior pets see a veterinarian at least once every six months.

Remain Sensitive to Your Pet’s Needs

Make the most of your pet’s twilight years by paying attention to their nutrition, making accommodations (including those that could improve your property’s value) for their changing needs, and spending lots of quality time together.

Up on the Woof is the place for dog-lovers and dedicated dog-parents to share tips and information. Questions? Just scroll down to find our comment form!

This guest post was written by Cindy Aldridge cindy@ourdogfriends.org