Sherry Steine Ross wrote for The Gazette, “Stress, loneliness, isolation, fear and fatigue are just a few words to describe the effects of 2020 on mental health. Deafinitely Dogs has shifted our program focus and strategies to deal with the effects of COVID19 and how people can help during the holiday season.

Deafinitely Dogs had to make the difficult decision to pause training for autism, diabetic and mobility assist service dogs. After COVID invaded our community, the requests for PTSD/psychiatric service dogs and professional facility dogs have skyrocketed. Requests for professional facility dogs have been received from health care professionals, organization, caregivers and mental health specialist. People who previously were able to manage their depression and anxiety are having extreme difficulties managing symptoms given the isolation and loneliness.”

 

Read the full article here.