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How a Small Source of Comfort Helped My Father Through Parkinson’s
My father was diagnosed with Parkinson’s a few years ago, and I saw how much the condition affected more than just his physical health. The changes, uncertainty, and daily challenges also took an emotional toll on him.
One thing that always helped him feel calmer was spending time with his dog. Those quiet moments gave him comfort on the harder days and helped reduce some of the stress he was carrying.
While looking into emotional support options, our family learned more about ESA evaluations and came across My ESA Therapist while researching the process. It helped us understand that emotional support decisions should be based on a proper evaluation and individual needs.
Living with Parkinson’s is not only about managing symptoms. Having emotional support, patience, and understanding from the people around you can make a meaningful difference.
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My three Beagles, Lady, (2019-present), Quiche (2013-2019), and Johnny Mac (2006-2013) that I have cared for since my PD diagnosis in 2006, are the one constant in all phases of my treatment plan. Even though there are times when I wish that I could just roll over during a rainy morning, the call of the hungry Beagle alarm clock demands my presence!
They also serve as my physical trainer because they require a great deal of exercise in order to maintain domestic tranquility in the household, so we are always walking somewhere! I live by the motto “a tired Beagle is happy Beagle” (and Owner).
Additionally, they require substantial amounts of food, treats and sometimes medication, which encourages me to keep the house well supplied for both of us.
But, their best role has been as a constant emotional support system for me over the past 20 years of my PD diagnosis. When I was first diagnosed in 2006 I had a “I can hold this off forever” attitude and could still play and teach tennis (my lifetime love 🎾) at a reasonable level, due to medication successes and early effectiveness. But eventually more medications had to be added on just to maintain basic functionality and tennis, and many other activities are no longer a possibility due to poor balance & coordination concerns.
I’ve also been noticing that my circle of friends & family is shrinking over time and people go out of their way to avoid me as the disease progresses. The dog though serves as a “buffer” for these “uncomfortable” situations, because everyone loves taking about their dogs and Beagles are very cute, friendly and popular, especially now that they are in the news often because of how they have been abused by Breeders and the animal testing Labs that they sell them to.
Before you decide to get a new furry “ friend for life” you should consider the following:
1) Adopting a senior dog instead of a high energy puppy from a reputable local animal shelter or rescue group is very fulfilling! They are usually housebroken/trained, mellow, and are grateful for the good home that you are providing for it. In addition, most adoption organizations are extremely helpful and supportive to make sure that you get the right dog for your family and lifestyle.
(2) Pets are expensive – food, toys, beds, vaccinations, maintenance and other medications must be budgeted for. Obtaining Pet Insurance is another consideration,,especially as your fur baby ages.
(3) If your HOA or Landlord does not allow pets, or has size restrictions that your dog can’t meet, there are Emotional Support Animal regulations in place to assist.
(4) Be prepared to take your new friend outside to relieve itself often. This is a good thing for us PD patients because we should be moving often throughout the day and a 10-15 minute walk with your dog is good for the both of you!
SOME SPECIFIC BEAGLE TRAITS:
1. Many suffer from separation anxiety which will require some additional training and patience. A dog camera can help with this.
2. Guard your food! The Beagle spends most of it’s waking hours usually staring at you, intent on finding ways to get more food (usually yours) and can jump up and figure out a way to knock it on the floor. In fact, the first time that I met my first Beagle Johnny Mac, he stole my entire sub sandwich right off of the plate when I left the table for a minute!
Due to both of our
declining health and aging concerns, Lady will have to be my last dog. In the meantime, I will do my best to take care of her and appreciate her roles as my physical and mental therapist, and the reason to get up every day!
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