Hi, I’m Ashton and in recognition of International Assistance Dog Week (August 4-10, 2024), which highlights the invaluable role of service dogs in supporting people with disabilities, I’m so excited to share about my amazing service dog, Forest.
Forest is more than just a companion; he’s a steadfast partner who helps me navigate daily life and live more independently as a disabled person. Our Nashville home is also filled with the energy of two other lovable pups, River and Stetson, and a mischievous cat, Panda - there’s never a dull moment here. My wonderful wife, Julie, completes our family, and together over the years, we’ve been able to go on some pretty awesome adventures!
Though I was diagnosed with several chronic illnesses early in life, my health took a significant downturn in the fall of 2019 when I was diagnosed with Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS) and Hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (HEDS). Despite trying countless treatments and solutions, I felt increasingly hopeless.
At that point, I knew very little about service dogs—my exposure had mostly been limited to guide dogs for the visually impaired. As I started researching more, I was amazed to discover the wide variety of service dogs, including those for diabetic alert, seizure alert, psychiatric, autism assistance, mobility assistance, and more.
Having a service dog opened up a whole new world for me, giving me the freedom to explore new places and travel with much greater ease. I got Forest in March 2020, and since then, we’ve shared so many incredible experiences together—everything from cruising and attending Broadway musicals to enjoying concerts, theme parks, beaches, weddings, and countless doctor’s appointments!
Unlike Emotional Support Animals (ESAs), service dogs are specifically task-trained to mitigate their handler’s disabilities. Forest is trained to assist me in a variety of ways, including alerting me to cardiac issues, carrying and holding items, picking up things I drop, closing doors, retrieving my medication, and providing light and deep pressure therapy.
As we celebrate International Assistance Dog Week, I’m filled with gratitude as I reflect on the remarkable journey that Forest and I have shared. His unwavering support as my service dog has not only helped me manage my health, but also allowed me to experience life with a new perspective and so much newfound joy. Here’s to celebrating these extraordinary animals and the incredible difference they make—every single day!
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