PTSD Service Dog - Funding Caleigh's Lifeline

Hi everyone,

 

It took me a long time to do this because of my pride, but a friend convinced and encouraged me that I had good reason. As most of you (those close to me and who follow me on social media) know, I've been working with a nonprofit organization to train a service dog named Willow for a medical condition I have - PTSD. This was the next best thing for me to try to help alleviate my symptoms, because no medication has ever worked for me. I have been in the program now for over a year and it has been my number one priority; literally above anything else.

 

It is no secret that Willow and the program have already changed my life in numerous ways. I remember when I first got her I didn't think it was going to work. I was anxious bringing her out in public, taking care of a puppy was hard, learning how to work with her at my job was hard, training her was hard. I have overcome all of that and now can't picture myself without her on most days. Her presence has given me a sense of purpose and makes me happier and healthier each day. I have gone from being on about six medications to only two since she has been in my life. In addition, her sweet, bright personality brings so much joy to those around her. I am able to do a lot of "normal people" things now that I couldn't do before, like going to the grocery store or post office. She has given me a voice to stand up for myself and what I believe in, and the courage to say no to things that make me uncomfortable.

 

I started this GoFundMe because since I got Willow, I have altered my life to do what is in her best interest and my own, including my financial decisions and the way I live. I have moved two times since I've gotten her. The first time was in part because my old roommates had 4 dogs and I thought she needed a more solitary environment for the beginning phases of her training. The second time, it was so I could move in with roommates to reduce my rent and afford costs for her better than I was able to before, even though that meant living 40 minutes from my job. I was doing ok, but I do think I could use some help. I pay for her training, medical bills, general care, training materials, etc. first before I buy anything for myself.

 

There is only about a 30% success rate when it comes to moving a "service dog in training" out of the "in training" phase, and I think Willow will fall in that 30%. I think she probably still needs another six months worth of work and training, and I was hoping to raise some funds to help with the remaining costs. I don't have much to give in return, but if donors send me their address I can send a thank you card with one of Willow's paw prints on it at the end.

 

Any money that is not used directly for Willow's Service Dog training, I will put into cross-training her as a Therapy Dog as well (if the program allows - only a certain percentage of service dogs can do both service and therapy). If Willow cannot excel in both of these areas, I will donate the remainder directly to her program.

 

I do want to be clear that there is a chance that Willow does not pass out of the program, but we have been trying our hardest and hoping it pays off. I hope you'll consider donating to us. Thank you to everyone who has been on our side.