Should I get a service dog?

Help!

Hello! I am 18 and will be moving out in a few years and I do not think I would be able to be independent without some kind of help. I have many mental and physical disabilities but here are a few for reference:

Tourettes

Chronic depression

Severe adhd

Autism

C-PTSD

Panic disorder

Chronic nightmares/night terrors

Short term memory loss

I have tried medication and counseling for a lot of these, and some do help a lot, but some are completely incompatible for my daily life. Here's an example of one: I have sedatives for my panic disorder and Tourettes flairups, they last a longg time and I cannot take them while driving or honestly doing anything important since they slow me down so much and make it impossible for me to function. I also have autistic meltdowns in which I hit, scratch, and bite myself. These medications do kick in pretty quickly, but I cannot go about the rest of my day normally because they inhibit my functionality.

My worry is that in my head I may be romanticizing the idea of a service animal that I may not actually need. I've already created a list of tasks my service dog could perform to help me in my day-to-day and help me resume my independence. I know it is a large decision, and not suited for everyone. I would really like help in discussing what breeds may work for me or if I need a service dog at all.

I work at a dog training and boarding facility so I'd like to think I know about dogs and am more than willing to learn even more about specialized care, I also have two dogs (a lab and a golden retriever) I am actively working on training and I care for, so I have no doubt I could care for a dog and their training. My only worry is if i actually need one or just want one. Thank you!

Posted Sep 12, 2026, 2:25 AM UTC · locked

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