Jazzy

by Debbie
(mansfeild, Oh 44906)

Me And Jazzy At Work

I have suffered from anxiety or panic attacks for the past 12 years. I spent 8 years practically imprisoned in my own home, bound by fear. I often thought of suicide, but realized it was not the answer, and I was too afraid of dying to really give it much merit. Through the years, I have adjusted my life around my panic attacks. I avoid crowds, and depend on my close friends and family for just about everything that involves any activity outside of the house.

I found a support group, and met a woman who also has panic attacks. She uses a service dog to help her live a " mostly normal" life. I have been doing dog rescue for the past 5 years ( in my house) and have helped place many dogs and puppies into homes that meet their needs. She asked me if I would be able to " donate" some dogs that would be able to be trained as service dogs for the people in our support group that would benefit by having a service dog. In doing so, and working with the people in our group, I realized what a wonderful tool the dogs can be for people, and they form such a bond with their person that they are able to detect stress levels, and respond accordingly. I knew that a service dog would also help me. I started looking, and found the perfect dog for me. Her name is Jazzy. She was surrendered to our rescue by her family because she has seizures, and they dont want their children to witness a seizure. I took her in, and with the help of our vet, she has been seizure free for nearly a year. She goes everywhere with me, and helps me through my panic attacks. She has been a wonderful friend, and help to me. She goes to the grocery store, and walks right past the meat section with nothing more than a twitch on her whiskers, and " works" the whole time we are out togehter. I have been " panic attack free" for almost 6 months- I owe it all to God and my girl Jazzy! I feel like I can finally live an "almost normal " life now too!