Stories of Kindness from Around the World

Dog Walking Therapy


--by scushman, posted Jun 18, 2016
I am so grateful for the therapeutic walk with the young neighbor lady who was having a PTSD episode and texted me. I suggested we grab our dogs and head for the park, even though it was very hot. She said, ok, but said she hasn't been able to eat the last few days.

 I suggested peanut butter for some protein and easy on the tummy. She was able to eat it and felt better. Then we headed out in the 90 degree sun. We met a neighbor I keep reintroducing her to, and he is starting be kinder and more accepting to her. 

Then off to the park with a breeze blowing. We talked and walked. Before you know it she was feeling much better. I gave her a light up solar leash (we sometimes walk at night) with doggy bags tied to handle (she forgets these bags and neighbors get mad when she doesn't scoop the poop) and a harness for her dog so it's neck is protected. It fit perfect. Yea!

She was so grateful and so was the dog. We talked about how to calm her mind and found out she has a beautiful voice and is very religious so I suggested singing and maybe even singing "Amazing Grace". She loved this idea and loves that song.

We hugged goodbye until the next text or walk. She really is a nice young lady in a hard situation but determined to make a better life for herself. I am so grateful I am able to help her in this small way. The KindSping community really has helped me to continue opening up my heart and feel peace and support and love.
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Readers Comments

Brandon.D wrote: I love the end it's so touching
Brandon.D wrote: I love the ending its so touching
Brandon.D wrote: I love the ending its so touching.
Joslyn wrote: The first thing was that she said she wasn't able to eat so her friend suggested that she eat peanut butter and she was able to eat and she was happy and felt batter then they went to the 90 degree sun and her and her pet were happy until the next walk
Breanna mason wrote: I like this passage because it teaches you how to take care of dogs
Kelby Peralez wrote: I like the story because it shows a small sence in community between two neighbors and one's dog.
Breanna mason wrote: I like the story becuse it tills you more about how to take care of a dog
Will wrote: That is a true show of mercy. Thank you for sharing and reminding me that sometimes just being present is the greatest gift of all.
PeaceDragon wrote: as someone who deals with PTSD, I am deeply touched by your actions, and especially the pragmatic kindnesses - the light up solar powered leash with the poop bags attached and the comfortable harness for her dog. That's the kind of support that can make a big difference - for the young woman and her dog, and in easing her way in the neighborhood. When one's attention is frequently consumed with flashbacks and sometimes debilitating memories, day to day functioning can be tricky.
Kaige wrote: Bless you for taking the time to calm this young woman's mind and to give her a chance to share a bit of herself with you.

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