Service dog handlers and their service dogs have a unique and profound relationship. Numerous studies have identified how service dogs positively impact people with disabilities, including the ability to foster socialization and community participation. Service dogs additionally provide emotional support, security, and an increased sense of independence. Thus, the loss of a service dog (from retirement or death) is often a significant life event, due in part to the lost relationship, but also, because of the changes this brings to the handler’s independence and activities of daily living.

This presentation will include discussion of results of quantitative and qualitative research pertaining to the loss of a service dog. It highlights the distinctive aspects of this profound relationship and issues related to its loss. The presenters also make suggestions, based upon their findings, about how veterinary professionals can help support this important relationship.

Running time: 39 mins
This presentation is no longer eligible for CE credit

You might also like

Dispelling Cancer Treatment Myths And Addressing Quality Of Life Of Affected Dogs And Cats

12/11/2024

Cancer is a word that can evoke a lot of fear and uncertainty, especially when it affects our animal...

Read More

Supporting The Cancer Patient: Managing Cancer Pain, Nutritional Needs Of Patients, And Supporting The Caregiver Through It All

12/04/2024

Aside from the plan prescribed to treat a pet’s cancer, we have to ensure that we are addressi...

Read More

Hemangiosarcoma - What We Know And How That's Changing The Paradigm Of Treatment And Prevention

11/13/2024

Hemangiosarcoma is a malignant tumor and, historically, associated with a poor long term prognosis....

Read More

Treating Cancer - It's Not Just Limited To "chemo" Or "radiation"

11/06/2024

There are different approaches to cancer treatment and, for some types of cancer, the therapy may be...

Read More

Cancer Diagnostics - What Is Helpful? What Is Hype Or Truly Offers Hope?

10/30/2024

The mention of 'cancer' can evoke a wide range of emotions ranging from fear to concern to confusion...

Read More

The Current Thinking About What Cancer Is And Its Possible Causes

10/23/2024

Cancer is a term that is often shrouded in uncertainty and fear, but gaining a clear understanding o...

Read More