Will having pet help with PTSD?

Does a pet help with PTSD? What kinds of pets are best? Does anyone know anything about service animals for PTSD or emotional disorders?

We're currently looking at getting a retired racing greyhound. Thoughts?

I currently have PTSD.
I think that anything that has therapeutic effects for you is worth trying. If you are having flashbacks and/or panic attacks and petting or playing with the dog helps calm you then you should definitely try it. Are you currently seeing a therapist? Ask them for their advice. But I think you should definitely try it. I don't know about the retired greyhound. If its personable, and playful then get it but try to get something easy to take care of, and a dog that has a playful personality. A dog that is hard to take care of and doesn't have a playful/sweet personality could make your situation worse.

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a dog would be wonderful as they are loving and are always there for you

I think a dog would be the best pet for what your going through. Personaly, I think Labs are the best and most pleasing. I'm sure a nice greyhound would be great too though.

Well I would start with something smaller such as a goldfish. There may be times that you don't feel like cleaning or feeding the animal. I would hate to see that happen.

it may help. pets are a GREAT source of friendship, and can be very therapeutic for people suffering from any disease. they provide companionship, smiles, loyalty, and give you something to care for. many hospitals and hospices use what is called 'pet therapy' for patients, not only those suffering from mental disorders such as PTSD but also things such as cancer or other terminal illnesses. pets give you a way to maybe stop thinking about those thoughts that are causing your PTSD because you have to stop and think about the pet and taking care of it, spending time with it, etc.

the most important thing i think in this decision isnt whether or not you should get the pet, but rather if the pet is a right fit for you. it is important to make sure you get a pet with a calm and loving temperament, especially in your case with PTSD, because a dog that is hyper and erratic may cause you to stress out, which wouldnt be beneficial to you. so when making the decision, choose carefully, and choose an even tempered, calm and loving dog that will help to soothe and relax you and help you not suffer from PTSD.

i applaud your decision! pets are an excellent companion :)

Pet therapy is a highly respected form of therapy. I am a RN at a hospital, which uses pet therapy on a bi-weekly basis, and the results for the pet therapy program are exceptional. It is a statistically proven fact that people recover from surgeries, and cope with mental disabilities, better when they are a pet owner. I think a dog would be a wonderful option. A small lap dog might also be nice. I have a toy fox terrier. It is a wonderful breed for such circumstances. He is small, about 7 lbs. He is able to keep himself entertained, is easily trained, and loves nothing more than to cuddle all day long. This breed is known to be exceptionally affectionate, and loyal. Hope this helps

best thing for PTSD are anti-depressants and a good therapist