Antiquated Antidotes

Dogs are beloved by humans for their expressive personalities, affectionate natures and ceaseless loyalty. These furry friends offer companionship and emotional support to many. Over the last few decades, dogs have been able to go even further in their abilities to improve the lives of people through the use of medical service training. Millions of people face daily trials due to medical conditions and these trained animals are able to offer assistance and peace of mind otherwise unavailable to them. The amount of good that comes out of the work that these special dogs do is incalculable.

Although it is difficult to pinpoint the exact time humans began using dogs for medical purposes, we do know that they have been doing special jobs for centuries. Art left behind from the Roman Empire shows depictions of dogs leading blind men. Canines were present all throughout history serving in various capacities; messengers, protectors, friends, ambulance and supply runners, and the list goes on and on. Credited as being the first training school, Les Quinze-Vingts, started systemically training dogs in the 1780s for the blind. The 1800s saw improved and carefully tested methods for dog-training but service dogs, as we understand them today, did not gain popularity until the 20th century and the First World War. 

Many soldiers in WWI experienced blindness due to the use of poison gas. Dogs were trained en mass to assist affected men. Through trial and error, people realized certain well-bred breeds were most suitable for such work. The most common service types include guide, hearing, seizure alert, diabetic alert, allergy detection, basic mobility assistance, autism support, and psychiatric services. By 1990, the Americans with Disabilities Act legally recognized service animals. Nowadays they are specially trained and obtain formal certifications that give them access to public spaces. The intelligence and drive that these amazing dogs possess has enabled hundreds of thousands of people around the world to lead happy and fulfilling lives. A bond between a human and a dog can certainly be a powerful healing tool.

Until Next Time

N.F.