Talking About Pet Care Supplies

If you have cystic fibrosis, you get out of breath very quickly and will often have coughing fits. Because of this, you should have a service dog to help you. There are a variety of dogs that can be used as service dogs, so you will have no problem finding one that you will love. If you would like to do this, below are tips on finding a service dog as well as on using a service dog vest.

Finding a Service Dog

There are many ways to find a service dog and many non-profit organizations that you can go through. Some organizations only provide service dogs for the blind or deaf. There are others that provide service dogs for people with physical and mental disabilities. When you start looking for an organization, make sure they have service dogs for people with physical disabilities, such as cystic fibrosis. You may have to give the organization medical records and a note from your doctor saying you would benefit from a service dog. Your doctor may also be able to tell you where you can get a service dog in your area.

Once you find an organization, you will visit with them and interact with the dogs they have available. It will become apparent when you connect with a certain animal. Then, the organization where you get your service dog will train it for what you will be using the dog for. 

Using a Service Dog Vest

Once you have found your service dog and it has been trained, you should consider using a service dog vest. This is not a requirement, however, but it helps let people know your dog is a working dog. The words "service dog" will be displayed on each side of the vest. The vest will also have something on it like "do not pet."

There are different types of service dog vests. One type has a handle that you can hold while the dog walks with you. This type is generally used for someone that is blind. A cape vest is another type that you can use. This type of vest drapes over your dog's back and shoulders. The vest has straps that secure the vest to your dog. The fabric used could be canvas, nylon, cotton, or mesh, and you can find cape vests in a variety of sizes. You can have a handle or a type of leash attached to the vest for you to hold onto.

There are also cape harnesses, which work like cape vests but are much more sturdy and durable. This cape has rings on each side so you can add a pull strap if you desire. No matter what type of service vest you choose, you can find them in a variety of colors and you can add patches on them.

Talk with the organization where you purchase your service dog if you have any questions or want to learn more about this topic.