Help Ashley get a Support Dog for PTSD!

***UPDATE***

Luka has arrived! 

Ashley and Luka have been united!

Ashley is 35 years old and has been diagnosed with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) since 2001 as a result of various, severe traumas starting in childhood. For years, it has been suggested by doctors and medical professionals that a dog would help in Ashley’s recovery as a source of stress reduction, routine, and companionship.Ashley is a vibrant, intelligent, talented, hilarious, and adventurous individual! 

Her smile is contagious and her presence brightens up the room! PTSD has negatively impacted Ashley’s life in numerous ways over the years, yet regardless of setbacks she has remained resilient, and has managed to persevere; earning both a Bachelor’s and a Master’s Degree from Memorial University, as well as a trade in Carpentry. Despite her dedication and hard work, Ashley experienced another traumatic event in 2018 which has caused a surge in her PTSD symptoms, most significantly she has become increasingly isolated and has developed a heightened fear of trusting people. 

An emotional support dog would most certainly improve her diminished quality of life. Ashley has always had an immense love for animals, so we are certain that this dog will live a very good life and bring comfort, meaning, and protection to Ashley’s.

"Ashley has worked diligently on her recovery, and her level of engagement has been in the top percentile of clients with whom I have worked throughout my 19-year career.  A dog will help Ashley continue to use the strategies she has learned by creating a safe and trusting bond, helping her with some of her symptoms, giving her a sense of purpose and meaning, and leading her to engage more with the outside world through walks.  I believe that if Ashley is able to organize the funds for this dog, it will greatly improve her quality of life, and may in fact save her life." - Dr. Jodi Spiegel (Psy.D) (Ashley's) Registered Psychologist

According to research, support animals and service animals are proven to be incredibly helpful to those who suffer with PTSD.  For more information about PTSD and how dogs can help, feel free to check out the following link: Here While Ashley would benefit most from a certified PTSD Service Dog, they are very expensive and can cost anywhere from $15,000-$30,000. Due to the severe nature of her PTSD, Ashley is currently unable to work, so her income is reduced, making it impossible to save for such a large out of pocket expense.

Through extensive research, Ashley has located a breeder of Standard Poodles in Ontario. She chose this breed, as they are emotionally intelligent, and are rated to be one of the most suitable dogs for those living with PTSD. The breeder in question has been breeding Standard Poodles for 30 years, is registered with the Canadian Kennel Club, and has had some of her dogs go on to become Certified Service Animals and Police Dogs. Her dogs are bred to have ideal temperaments, are socialized with other animals and people, and are trained to be desensitized to common noises. Ashley and the breeder have been in contact over the past 2 years, and Ashley has already paid the initial deposit to be considered for a puppy. Due to reduced financial resources, Ashley has had to pass up on three different litters. 

Fortunately, there was just a new litter of puppies born last week. They will be ready to go to their new homes by the 3rd week of November. As fate would have it, Ashley is just about to have a major surgery, and will be healed up just in time to accept a new puppy into her life. The timing couldn’t be more perfect. As Ashley heals physically the new addition of an Emotional Support dog will help her heal mentally as well.

We are trying to raise the remaining costs, which is $2500. This includes the cost of the puppy, shipping to St. John’s from Toronto, and the first vet visit.Thank you so much for offering your financial support. 

Ashley is a truly remarkable and deserving person; she has so much to offer to this world and her life will be drastically improved by the addition of an emotional support dog. 

GoFundMe only accepts credit cards, so if you would prefer to donate by e-transfer or paypal, let us know!Please share Ashley’s story and a link to her GoFundMe with your friends, family, and anyone who you think will be inspired to help.

Thank You!

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