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A senior Labrador Retriever mixed breed dog

<h3>Aging Gracefully: 3 Wellness Shifts Every Dog Parent Should Consider in the Senior Years</h3>Being in the pet space leads to some of the most unexpected—and honestly, fascinating—conversations. After I shared my recent blog post, “<a data-mce-href="https://pawsonplanesinc.com/blog/what-if-your-dog-could-live-30-50--longer--and-healthier" href="https://pawsonplanesinc.com/blog/what-if-your-dog-could-live-30-50--longer--and-healthier" target="_blank" rel="noopener">What if your dog could live 30–50% longer… and healthier?</a>” I found myself diving deeper down the rabbit hole of pet wellness.As someone who cares deeply about health and longevity for both myself and my husband, it only made sense that I’d turn that same curiosity toward my dog, Luciano. But wow—there’s a lot out there. It’s exciting, yes. But also? Overwhelming. The more I learn, the more I realize how much I don’t know yet.<figure id="figure-lxad2o5igdmdf1hbwa"><img id="lxad2o5igdmdf1hbwa" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1995859710/photo/smiling-woman-vet-performs-checkup-on-attentive-dog.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=ttvDPxEaqdPs5VtVwXNo5JGatjZ3K8Q9Inq2SW_hEY0=" alt="Smiling woman vet performs checkup on attentive dog" title="Smiling woman vet performs checkup on attentive dog" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1995859710/photo/smiling-woman-vet-performs-checkup-on-attentive-dog.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=ttvDPxEaqdPs5VtVwXNo5JGatjZ3K8Q9Inq2SW_hEY0=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>From Curious to Committed</h3>Because I’m a certified Crazy Dog Mom (and proud of it), I recently drove to Omaha—an hour from home—to meet a veterinarian who blends conventional medicine with holistic practices like Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine and acupuncture. She’s certified by the International Veterinary Acupuncture Society (IVAS) and has extensive training in preventative care. After our conversation, I was all in.We decided to do an Animal Biome test, which analyzes your dog’s stool to determine gut health and microbiome balance. It helps reveal whether your dog is truly getting everything they need from their current food—or if they’re missing key nutrients, beneficial bacteria, or could use probiotic support. (Spoiler alert: I’ll be sharing what I end up learning in Luciano’s diet as a result of this test).<h3>Making Connections in the Pet Wellness World</h3>The deeper I get into these topics, the more amazing people I meet. One of them is Koryn Greenspan, the heart behind The Parted Paw. Koryn is a Certified Pet Loss Bereavement Specialist, a professional dog trainer, and a powerful advocate for holistic pet care and wellness.We talked about one of the hardest parts of having a pet: the end-of-life stage. It’s emotional, confusing, and often not talked about enough. If you're ever navigating that chapter, I can't recommend Koryn enough—she offers support when you need it most.If you need support contact Koryn at <a data-mce-href="https://www.thepartedpaw.com/" href="https://www.thepartedpaw.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">thepartedpaw.com</a> to schedule a call.But let’s not wait for that moment to start making changes. Today, I want to focus on three simple but powerful ways to care for your aging dog, so they can enjoy more good days for as long as possible.<blockquote>Aging doesn’t have to mean decline. It can mean deeper connection, intentional care, and more sunset strolls.</blockquote><figure id="figure-hzqisl1uvjmdf20z7i"><img id="hzqisl1uvjmdf20z7i" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/2106838834/photo/dog-and-human-sitting-together-on-the-beach-at-sunset-friendship.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=sbvfyf64xyAgUBE3PdlNxqUKj5GEwOqz8EL7nhByEYU=" alt="dog and human sitting together on the beach at sunset, friendship" title="dog and human sitting together on the beach at sunset, friendship" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/2106838834/photo/dog-and-human-sitting-together-on-the-beach-at-sunset-friendship.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=sbvfyf64xyAgUBE3PdlNxqUKj5GEwOqz8EL7nhByEYU=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>3 Wellness Shifts To Consider in Your Dog's Senior Years</h3>1. Upgrade Their Joint Support &amp; Movement RoutineAs dogs age, arthritis and stiffness start creeping in. But that doesn’t mean your pup has to slow down without support.Try this:<ul><li>Add joint supplements (ask your vet what may work best)</li><li>Replace long walks with short, frequent strolls—especially on soft terrain.</li><li>Use low-impact enrichment tools like snuffle mats, puzzle feeders, or scent games.</li></ul>Pro tip: Talk to your vet about acupuncture or canine massage. Yep, your dog deserves spa days too.2. Revisit Their Diet Like It’s a High School ReunionYour dog’s metabolism has changed—and so should their menu.Try this:<ul><li>Consider a senior-specific formula or whole/fresh food tailored to aging bodies.</li><li>Add toppers like bone broth, golden paste (turmeric + coconut oil), or omega-3s for cognitive and joint health (consult a vet).</li><li>Focus on digestibility—older guts don’t process food like they used to.</li></ul>Avoid: Highly processed kibble, excess fat, and anything that turns them into a fart machine.3. Adapt Their Environment—They’re Not Jumping Like They Used ToThis is the canine version of switching from stilettos to supportive sneakers—and they’ll thank you for it.Try this:<ul><li>Add non-slip rugs, stairs or ramps, and orthopedic beds.</li><li>Elevate food and water bowls to reduce neck strain.</li></ul>Bonus: Create a “Dog Bucket List.” Add beach trips, new trails, pup cups, and maybe even a night sleeping in your bed—snoring and all.<h3>Final Thoughts</h3>We can’t stop time, but we can make the time we have more vibrant, joyful, and comfortable—for both us and our dogs. Aging doesn’t have to mean decline. It can mean deeper connection, intentional care, and more sunset strolls.If you're as obsessed with pet wellness as I am (or want to be), stick around. There’s more to come—from gut health insights to holistic care tips that help our dogs not just live longer but live well.👉 Know someone with a senior dog who needs this? Share it. 📩 Want to learn more about pet wellness, service dog travel, or gut health testing? Let’s connect!<figure id="figure-hwunr9gciomdf229jz" class=""><img id="hwunr9gciomdf229jz" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/38X27aq37Axy5xAWbu9B88wURDKHCWdXXqs9LqlZ8kastXlKOZ4Npo43OH40tUH9.jpg" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 3/2; object-position: 40% 25%;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="3:2" data-caption="" data-positionx="40%" data-positiony="25%" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/38X27aq37Axy5xAWbu9B88wURDKHCWdXXqs9LqlZ8kastXlKOZ4Npo43OH40tUH9.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 3/2; object-position: 40% 25%;"></figure>

3 Easy Wellness Wins for Senior Dogs

Charming brown puppy, sunglasses and Italian flag

<h3>International Adventures: Traveling Abroad with Your Pet or Service Dog</h3>Let’s be honest—international travel with a pet or service dog isn’t exactly a walk in the park. Between airline rules, country-specific requirements, and trying to keep your dog calm through it all… it can feel downright daunting.But it doesn’t have to be.If you're planning to move or travel abroad with your pet or Psychiatric Service Dog (PSD), preparation starts long before you hit “book now.” With the right training, tools, and timeline, it is possible to go from overwhelmed to "we've got this."Here’s how to make your global journey paws-itive from the start.<figure id="figure-ez8qjma3gmdf0mdsb"><img id="ez8qjma3gmdf0mdsb" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1405183227/photo/a-beagle-dog-sits-in-an-open-suitcase-with-clothes-and-leisure-items-summer-travel-preparing.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=keZkJhcOBJ5aoF2YEbPGahQDFX9TfnfJLwPJHJ47VI8=" alt="A beagle dog sits in an open suitcase with clothes and leisure items. Summer travel, preparing for a trip, packing luggage." title="A beagle dog sits in an open suitcase with clothes and leisure items. Summer travel, preparing for a trip, packing luggage." class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1405183227/photo/a-beagle-dog-sits-in-an-open-suitcase-with-clothes-and-leisure-items-summer-travel-preparing.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=keZkJhcOBJ5aoF2YEbPGahQDFX9TfnfJLwPJHJ47VI8=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>First Things First: Training &amp; Travel Prep</h3>Before you even buy a plane ticket, let’s talk about readiness—because an unprepared dog + international travel = stress for everyone.<ul><li>Carrier Comfort: Whether your pet is flying in-cabin or cargo, they need to feel safe and secure in their travel crate. Let them hang out in it at home, toss in some treats, make it their cozy den. This is their flying sanctuary—not a surprise box the day of the flight.</li><li>Service Dog Training: If you're flying with a PSD, airport behavior matters. Prepare them for TSA screenings, loud announcements, and tight airplane spaces. This training is just as important as any paperwork. Have questions about training or airline paperwork? <a data-mce-href="https://pawsonplanesinc.com/lets-get-started" href="https://pawsonplanesinc.com/lets-get-started" target="_blank" rel="noopener">[Book a free consult call with me HERE].</a> </li></ul><h3>Airlines: Cabin vs. Cargo (pet)</h3>Once your pet is ready to fly, the next big question: Where will they fly—under the seat or in the cargo hold?Most airlines allow small pets (under 20 lbs in carrier) to fly in-cabin. For larger pets, or for international routes that don’t allow in-cabin pets, cargo is the only option.<blockquote>🚨 Heads-up: Not all airlines offer pet cargo services—and some restrict it to military or diplomatic travel only.</blockquote>✅ What to Know About Cargo Travel:<ul><li>Choose the Right Airline: Some carriers specialize in pet cargo with temperature-controlled holds. I can help you find the safest option.</li><li>Breed Restrictions: Brachycephalic (flat-faced) breeds like Bulldogs or Pugs often can’t fly in cargo due to respiratory risk.</li><li>Weather Policies: Airlines only fly pets when ground temps are between 45–85°F—at all airports on your route.</li><li>Age Requirements: For international travel, pets must be at least 6 months old (domestic: 8 weeks).</li><li>Crate Requirements:<ul><li>Must meet IATA standards</li><li>Pet must be able to stand, turn, and lie down</li><li>No body parts should stick out</li></ul></li></ul><figure id="figure-u9kllxjaggmdf0qhrb"><img id="u9kllxjaggmdf0qhrb" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1011834458/photo/small-dog-pomaranian-spitz-in-a-travel-bag-on-board-of-plane-selective-focus.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=iO_VH1hA6Qoa6hPxle4Y3nioq9ml_nn_LdjWbkcWrBA=" alt="small dog pomaranian spitz in a travel bag on board of plane, selective focus" title="small dog pomaranian spitz in a travel bag on board of plane, selective focus" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1011834458/photo/small-dog-pomaranian-spitz-in-a-travel-bag-on-board-of-plane-selective-focus.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=iO_VH1hA6Qoa6hPxle4Y3nioq9ml_nn_LdjWbkcWrBA=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>USDA Health Certificates &amp; Country Rules</h3>Once you’ve narrowed down the airline, your next step: reviewing the destination country's import requirements.Most countries require:<ul><li>A USDA-endorsed Health Certificate</li><li>Proof of vaccinations (especially rabies)</li><li>Microchip details</li></ul>Start by visiting the USDA Pet Travel Portal: 👉 <a data-mce-href="https://www.aphis.usda.gov/pet-travel/us-to-another-country-export" href="https://www.aphis.usda.gov/pet-travel/us-to-another-country-export" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Take a Pet From the United States to Another Country</a>Pro Tips:<ul><li>Work with a USDA-accredited vet (prices vary, so call around!)</li><li>Ask your vet to help follow the step-by-step country-specific guidance</li><li>Don’t be afraid to call the USDA helpline—they’re friendly, fast, and genuinely helpful!</li></ul><h3>Top 3 Travel Tips for Pet Parents</h3>🛫 Book Early: Pet spots on flights are more limited than exit row seats. Don’t wait—reserve ASAP.🛫 Know the Dimensions: Check your airline’s carrier size and weight rules. Soft-sided carriers that fit under the seat are required for in-cabin travel.🛫 Get There Early: Add 30–45 minutes to your airport arrival time to accommodate check-in, screening, and bathroom breaks (for both of you).<h3>What to Pack: The Ultimate On-the-Go Kit</h3>✈️ Never count on your checked luggage showing up on time—especially internationally. Always keep these essentials in your carry-on:<ul><li>Food &amp; treats (bring extra!)</li><li>Collapsible bowls &amp; bottled water</li><li>Waste bags</li><li>Copy of veterinary records / health records</li><li>Any medications</li><li>Comfort item like a favorite blanket or toy</li></ul><figure id="figure-bbhxpckylymdf0w71d"><img id="bbhxpckylymdf0w71d" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1174766953/photo/cute-dog-of-dachshund-black-and-tan-buried-in-the-sand-at-the-beach-sea-on-summer-vacation.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=qWJ2Ky_Al0UHaP_yB18I8Zd_kk0HTkC1QK0qRUbt3k8=" alt="cute dog of dachshund, black and tan, buried in the sand at the beach sea on summer vacation holidays, wearing red sunglasses with coconut cocktail" title="cute dog of dachshund, black and tan, buried in the sand at the beach sea on summer vacation holidays, wearing red sunglasses with coconut cocktail" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1174766953/photo/cute-dog-of-dachshund-black-and-tan-buried-in-the-sand-at-the-beach-sea-on-summer-vacation.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=qWJ2Ky_Al0UHaP_yB18I8Zd_kk0HTkC1QK0qRUbt3k8=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>Final Thoughts</h3>International travel with your dog takes planning—but it’s so worth it. Whether you're moving across the globe or taking a long-awaited adventure, being prepared makes all the difference.✨ When your dog is trained, your documents are in order, and your airline game plan is solid—you’re not just traveling. You’re traveling confidently.💬 Need help sorting through country regulations, airline forms, or training prep? <a data-mce-href="https://pawsonplanesinc.com/lets-get-started" href="https://pawsonplanesinc.com/lets-get-started" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Let’s talk—book a free consult here</a>.This blog doesn’t cover every single step of international travel with a pet or service dog—but that’s exactly what we’re here for. If you're feeling stuck or unsure, shoot us an email: alison@pawsonplanesinc.com.Because a well-prepared dog means a smoother journey—and unforgettable adventures ahead. 🌎🐾

Traveling Abroad with Your Pet or Service Dog

<h2>Does Your Dog Qualify as a Psychiatric Service Animal?</h2>Dogs have been assisting humans with specific tasks for thousands of years. According to historians, the oldest record of such behavior dates back to the first century AD – a fresco in ancient Roman city Herculaneum shows a blind man being led by his dog. The modern guide dog movement started in post WWI Germany to assist soldiers who were visually impaired during combat.&nbsp;<blockquote>It’s not just about putting a vest on your dog. </blockquote>Psychiatric Service Dogs (PSDs) play a crucial role in helping individuals with a psychiatric disability. Unlike emotional support animals, PSDs must undergo specific training to ensure they are well-behaved in public and can perform work or tasks related to their handler’s disability.In this post, we’ll explore the training requirements every PSD must meet.<h3>What You Should Know Before You Start Training Your Dog</h3>Before diving into service dog training, it’s essential to understand how your dog learns—and what truly motivates them. Taking the time to study canine body language can be a game-changer. When you can read your dog’s subtle cues, you’re better equipped to adjust your training, avoid frustration, and build a stronger bond.Most dogs thrive on interaction and praise, but when it comes to service dog tasks, motivation matters. Food rewards are often the fastest way to reinforce learning. Some dogs prefer toys or a quick play session as a reward—and the more your dog sees you as their favorite playmate, the stronger your training relationship will be.Training a service dog involves two key phases:1. Teaching PhaseThis is where your dog learns the “what.” You’ll guide them with help—maybe using a food lure or a hand signal—to show them the behavior you want. Once your dog starts to understand the action, you’ll begin pairing it with a verbal cue (like “sit” or “touch”).2. Proofing PhaseOnce your dog can perform a task with at least 80% reliability (think 8 out of 10 times), it’s time to start “proofing”—which means training under the three D’s:<ul><li>Distance: Can they follow the cue if you’re a few feet away?</li><li>Duration: Can they hold the position for 30 seconds…then a minute…then longer?</li><li>Distraction: Can they stay focused with new sights, sounds, smells, and people around?</li></ul>Let’s say you’re working on “sit.” You’ll start in a distraction-free zone, like your living room. Once they’re nailing it, you’ll add one variable at a time—maybe asking for a sit from across the room, or holding the position for two minutes. Then you take it on the road: try Home Depot, a quiet park, or a pet-friendly store to begin layering in real-world distractions.A few more tips to keep training successful:<ul><li>End every session with play. Just like kids need recess after homework, your dog benefits from fun, interactive play. It reinforces connection and keeps training fun.</li><li>Don’t overdo affection or free food. If your dog has constant access to treats and snuggles, their motivation to work for them in training can plummet.</li><li>Reserve some of that praise and affection for training wins—it makes the reward more meaningful.</li><li>Track your progress. Keep a training log to note which tasks you’re working on, what level of the “three D’s” you’re tackling, and how your dog is responding. It’ll help you spot patterns and celebrate growth.</li></ul><h3>What Makes a Dog Qualify as a Psychiatric Service Animal?</h3>Psychiatric service dog training has two key elements:<ul><li>Good Public Manners: Ensuring your service dog behaves accordingly in various public settings is crucial. Whether at airports, restaurants, or busy streets, your service dog should be calm, controlled, and non-disruptive.</li><li>Psychiatric Service Dog Tasks: Every service dog must be trained to perform a specific task directly related to the handler’s disability. This is what sets them apart from pets or emotional support animals. </li></ul>To meet these goals, effective service dog training focuses on two main components: Public Access Training and Specialized Task Training.<figure id="figure-zlp6pm6uym23qmevi"><img id="zlp6pm6uym23qmevi" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/13gUiV0AHM18ySghp1uxEtnnwgtu7rzbxXwbhLaCYrla3yEv8BLuhjhTKUaiyoim.jpg" alt="gray metal elevator door closed" title="gray metal elevator door closed" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 3/2; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="3:2" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/13gUiV0AHM18ySghp1uxEtnnwgtu7rzbxXwbhLaCYrla3yEv8BLuhjhTKUaiyoim.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 3/2; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>The Public Access Test</h3>The General Public Access Test ensures that a service dog demonstrates good manners in public spaces. This training ensures that your dog remains calm, focused, and under control, even in distracting or stressful environments.Key Elements of Public Access Training Include:<ul><li>Following Commands: Your service dog should reliably demonstrate basic obedience skills like “sit,” “stay,” “down,” and “heel” even in distracting settings, such as around food or while waiting in line.</li><li>Leash Control: Your dog should walk calmly at your side without pulling on the leash or wandering off.</li><li>Ignoring Distractions: In a crowded airport or busy street, your PSD should be able to ignore distractions like other animals, loud noises, or food on the ground.</li><li>Good Behavior in Public Settings: This includes not jumping on people, barking excessively, or displaying aggression. Your dog should sit quietly at your feet in restaurants, on public transport, or in waiting areas.<ul><li style="list-style-type: none;" data-mce-style="list-style-type: none;"><ul><li>Vehicle Exit/Entry</li><li>Approaching/Entering Buildings</li><li>Navigating Buildings</li><li>Restaurant Etiquette</li></ul></li></ul></li><li>Overall Attitude: The dog’s demeanor should be calm, focused, and responsive in all public settings. </li></ul>A well-trained PSD that passes the General Public Access Test is reliable, calm, and non-intrusive, allowing their handler to confidently navigate public settings without added stress.<figure id="figure-u0e26drb7km23qt2fr"><img id="u0e26drb7km23qt2fr" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/23acLFV1ZQ616QQi7OS1do2SCS3rBjLWhhN5cHAhnv9szCyctW05W2HeSZt9edVP.jpg" alt="brown wooden cabinet near brown wooden door" title="brown wooden cabinet near brown wooden door" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 3/2; object-position: 50% 35%;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="3:2" data-caption="" data-positionx="50%" data-positiony="35%" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/23acLFV1ZQ616QQi7OS1do2SCS3rBjLWhhN5cHAhnv9szCyctW05W2HeSZt9edVP.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 3/2; object-position: 50% 35%;"></figure><h3>Specialized Task/Work Training</h3>The second essential component of Psychiatric Service Dog training is Specialized Task Training. Under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), a Psychiatric Service Dog must be trained to perform specific tasks that help mitigate their handler’s mental or emotional disability. These tasks vary based on individual needs.Examples of Specialized Tasks Include:<ul><li>Tactile Stimulation &amp; Deep Pressure Therapy: PSDs can provide therapeutic pressure on their handler’s chest or lap to help with emotional regulation during anxiety or panic attacks.</li><li>Alerting to Anxiety Attacks: A PSD can be trained to recognize signs of an oncoming anxiety attack and respond by providing calming pressure or physical contact.</li><li>Interrupting Harmful Behaviors: PSDs can stop self-harming behaviors like skin-picking or hair-pulling by nudging or pawing their handler.</li><li>Medication Reminders: Some PSDs are trained to alert their handler to take medication at specific times.</li><li>Guiding to Safety: During panic attacks or dissociative episodes, the PSD can guide the handler to a safe and quiet location.</li><li>Acting as a Barrier: In crowded areas, the PSD can create a physical buffer between their handler and other people to provide a sense of comfort and space.</li></ul>Each task is customized to the handler’s unique needs and directly relates to their disability. This specialized training makes the PSD an invaluable support system for the handler's mental health.<figure id="figure-50as3krpmqm2wfa3ci"><img id="50as3krpmqm2wfa3ci" src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1696875072169-9f437580df21?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHw2fHxkb2clMjBhdCUyMGFpcnBvcnR8ZW58MHx8fHwxNzMwMzI1Nzg4fDA&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080" alt="a black dog wearing a yellow service vest and red bow tie" title="a black dog wearing a yellow service vest and red bow tie" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1696875072169-9f437580df21?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHw2fHxkb2clMjBhdCUyMGFpcnBvcnR8ZW58MHx8fHwxNzMwMzI1Nzg4fDA&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;"></figure><h3>Air Travel and Service Dog Training</h3>When preparing your Psychiatric Service Dog (PSD) for air travel, it’s essential to focus on specific skills. Traveling with a service dog involves meeting compliance with specific airline policies under the <a data-mce-href="https://www.transportation.gov/resources/individuals/aviation-consumer-protection/service-animals" href="https://www.transportation.gov/resources/individuals/aviation-consumer-protection/service-animals" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA)</a>.Key Aspects of Air Travel Training:<ul><li>Navigating Crowds and Checkpoints: Your service dog should stay calm and focused while moving through busy airport terminals and passing through security screenings. Training your dog to stay close and ignore distractions helps with smooth navigation through crowded areas.</li><li>Acclimation to Confinement and Noise: Airplane cabins, with their confined spaces and unfamiliar sounds, can be scary. Gradual exposure to environments with loud noises and confined spaces, paired with reward-based training is helpful to prepare.</li><li>Settling During Flights: Your service dog should be trained to settle calmly at your feet or under the seat. You can practice this skill on public transportation like busses.</li><li>Compliance with Airline Policies and Documentation: The <a data-mce-href="https://www.transportation.gov/individuals/aviation-consumer-protection/service-animals/Air_Transportation_Form" href="https://www.transportation.gov/individuals/aviation-consumer-protection/service-animals/Air_Transportation_Form" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Department of Transportation (DOT) form</a> is required by airlines to confirm that your dog is trained to behave in-flight. Familiarizing yourself with these forms and completing them accurately helps streamline the process. Emotional support animals are not considered service animals and have to follow an airline pet policy.</li></ul>Proper training and preparation helps your service dog confidently assist you when flying, allowing for a more comfortable and travel experience. At Paws on Planes Inc., we’re here to guide you in preparing your dog for air travel, from training to understanding airline requirements, we are here to help. Read more about specific Service Dog Air Travel Tips <a data-mce-href="https://pawsonplanesinc.com/blog/flying-with-your-psychiatric-service-dog" href="https://pawsonplanesinc.com/blog/flying-with-your-psychiatric-service-dog" target="_blank" rel="noopener">HERE</a>.<figure id="figure-6khavc2cmhm2wfbw6o" class=""><img id="6khavc2cmhm2wfbw6o" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/2098895574/photo/dog-gives-paw-to-a-woman-making-high-five-gesture.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=dLsmnEdxaJBMD89a3eM8nX9zv8DCL6sdrIM1B_qEMqs=" alt="Dog gives paw to a woman making high five gesture" title="Dog gives paw to a woman making high five gesture" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/2098895574/photo/dog-gives-paw-to-a-woman-making-high-five-gesture.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=dLsmnEdxaJBMD89a3eM8nX9zv8DCL6sdrIM1B_qEMqs=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>Final Thoughts</h3>Training a Psychiatric Service Dog takes time, but the payoff is life-changing. From building obedience and confidence to mastering public access and task training, the goal is to create a calm, capable partner who supports your mental health every step of the way.Whether you’re just starting or feeling stuck, you don’t have to figure this out alone. At Paws on Planes Inc., we help you navigate every phase—from training to travel—with clarity and confidence.👉 Want to know if your dog qualifies or what step to take next? <a data-mce-href="https://pawsonplanesinc.com/lets-get-started" href="https://pawsonplanesinc.com/lets-get-started" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Book a free consult</a> and receive our PSD Readiness Checklist to get started.

Training Requirements for Psychiatric Service Dogs

Cute red and white corgi lays on the bed with eye maks from real cucumber chips. Head on the pillow, covered by blanket, paw up.

<blockquote>Turns out, they might be dying younger than they’re meant to. In this blog post learn 3 actionable steps you can take today to have your dog live a longer, healthier life.&nbsp;</blockquote>We love our dogs like family. But here’s something most pet parents never hear:<ul><li>Many dogs are dying younger than their potential.</li><li>And it’s not just sad—it’s preventable.</li></ul>Yep, you read that right. New research suggests that under the right conditions, our dogs could live 30–50% longer than they are right now. And not just longer—but better. With more healthy, active years before illness sets in.So why aren’t they?Let’s talk about it.<figure id="figure-pest2gf8nemct8qgbo"><img id="pest2gf8nemct8qgbo" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1147997777/photo/woman-with-his-golden-labradoodle-dog-reading-at-home.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=Z-FBsuC_QhSxGLIPVVwI4jcKnJ4Ni01SK3_lDKLA2gA=" alt="woman with his Golden Labradoodle dog reading at home" title="woman with his Golden Labradoodle dog reading at home" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1147997777/photo/woman-with-his-golden-labradoodle-dog-reading-at-home.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=Z-FBsuC_QhSxGLIPVVwI4jcKnJ4Ni01SK3_lDKLA2gA=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>Lifespan vs. Health span: What's the Difference?</h3>Veterinary researchers are shifting from simply asking “how long dogs live” to “how well they live.” This concept—called compression of morbidity—means:<ul><li>Your dog stays healthy and active for most of their life</li><li>Illness comes later—and is short-lived</li><li>Decline is quick and less painful</li></ul>Sounds like a dream, right?Unfortunately, many dogs experience early decline—due to years of inflammation, chronic disease and organ failure that shorten their life and quality of life. But here’s the twist: much of this is preventable with the right environment and lifestyle.<h3>Is Your Dog Dying Too Soon? What Science Says About Lifespan</h3>Veterinarians like <a data-mce-href="https://drkarenbecker.com/" href="https://drkarenbecker.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Dr. Karen Becker</a> and longevity researcher <a data-mce-href="https://foreverdog.com/" href="https://foreverdog.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Rodney Habib</a> argue that our dogs aren't dying young because of bad genes—but because of modern lifestyles. Dr. Karen Becker is a proactive and integrative veterinarian who challenges conventional pet care standards. Rodney Habib is a pet wellness advocate, researcher, and documentary filmmaker best known for his work on canine longevity and exposing flaws in the pet food industry.Overprocessed food, environmental toxins, chronic stress, and lack of mental enrichment are the real culprits cutting their lives short.Studies back this up:<ul><li>📖 <a data-mce-href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6115627/" href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6115627/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NIH: Demographic Change Across the Lifespan of Pet Dogs and Their Impact on Health Status</a></li><li>📊 <a data-mce-href="https://actavetscand.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s13028-016-0206-7?utm_source=chatgpt.com" href="https://actavetscand.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s13028-016-0206-7?utm_source=chatgpt.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Acta Vet Scand: Aging Patterns in Dogs</a></li><li>📚 <a data-mce-href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aging_in_dogs" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aging_in_dogs" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Wikipedia: Aging in Dogs Overview</a></li></ul>The takeaway? Genetics set the baseline, but it's lifestyle that drives the outcome. And the good news is—you can change it.<figure id="figure-rfch4ygbxemct8ryc0"><img id="rfch4ygbxemct8ryc0" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1494578573/photo/couple-with-dog-at-home.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=D06WKVxqxqG4MMgdcyaprm-YEtKmgXOehEZtnFIXxLI=" alt="Couple with dog at home" title="Couple with dog at home" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1494578573/photo/couple-with-dog-at-home.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=D06WKVxqxqG4MMgdcyaprm-YEtKmgXOehEZtnFIXxLI=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>3 Ways to Support a Longer, Healthier Life for Your Dog</h3>Ready to help your pup not just survive, but thrive? Here’s where to start:1. Rethink the Food BowlChoosing the best dog food doesn’t need to be overwhelming. Skip the kibble marketing hype and feed your dog a whole food, balanced diet. This can be raw, dehydrated, or air-dried—as long as it’s made with real, nutrient-rich ingredients.👉 Want to learn what ingredients to avoid? Check out our post:<a data-mce-href="https://pawsonplanesinc.com/blog/identifying-harmful-ingredients-in-dog-food" href="https://pawsonplanesinc.com/blog/identifying-harmful-ingredients-in-dog-food" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> Identifying Harmful Ingredients in Dog Food</a>2. Ditch the ToxinsYou can’t bubble-wrap your house—but you can drastically lower your dog’s toxic load with a few simple swaps:<ul><li>🧼 Clean smarter: Switch to pet-safe cleaners and ditch harsh chemicals.</li><li>💧 Filter their water: Our tap water contains chlorine and heavy metals. Put a filter on your house sink and provide your dog with filtered water. There are inexpensive filters on the market that make a huge difference. TIP: We have even put a filter on our garden house for watering our vegetable garden</li><li>🥣 Upgrade the bowl: Swap plastic bowls for stainless steel, glass, or ceramic.</li><li>🌱 Ditch yard pesticides: Use vinegar-based, pet-safe weed killers. </li></ul>3. Stress Management: Prioritize Their Mental + Physical NeedsLonely dogs, under-stimulated dogs, or bored dogs? That creates chronic stress. And it takes a toll. Movement is medicine—but so is enrichment. Walks are a must, but also try:<ul><li>Scent work or sniff walks</li><li>Puzzle toys or training games</li><li>Social time with trusted dogs or humans &nbsp;<h3>Need Help Making the Switch?</h3>I get it—it’s a lot. Sometimes the idea of change feels overwhelming.</li></ul>That’s where Zannah with Well Beings Unleashed comes in. She works with pet parents to take bite-sized, budget-conscious steps toward a healthier lifestyle—from upgrading food to swapping out toxic household products. This isn’t about perfection—it’s about progress. Book a consult with Zannah today at zannah@wellbeingsunleashed.com or <a data-mce-href="https://www.wellbeingsunleashed.com/" href="https://www.wellbeingsunleashed.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">WellBeingsUnleashed.com</a><h3>✈️ And One More Thing…</h3>And if you’re flying or traveling often, lifestyle disruptions can add up. That’s why I always focus on both the human and the dog in our training and travel prep at Paws on Planes.Travel is about making memories—and your dog deserves to be part of that journey for as long as possible.So, if you’re looking to fly with your dog (or future service dog), let’s not just get them flight-ready. Let’s get them life-ready.👉 Book a consult today – <a data-mce-href="https://pawsonplanesinc.com/lets-get-started" href="https://pawsonplanesinc.com/lets-get-started" target="_blank" rel="noopener">CLICK HERE</a>.<figure id="figure-53pxu6rbwwmct8wcf2"><img id="53pxu6rbwwmct8wcf2" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1397214287/photo/active-senior-woman-walks-with-her-labradoodle-through-the-forest.jpg?b=1&s=2048x2048&w=0&k=20&c=GyG7fxZSH_22PB9lFy5YrLJCpsByjTmSFyCXIdzUSUg=" alt="active senior woman walks with her labradoodle through the forest" title="active senior woman walks with her labradoodle through the forest" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionX="undefined" data-positionY="undefined" data-fullWidth="false"/></figure><h3>Final Thoughts: Meet Their Needs Before They Meet Yours</h3>If your dog is high energy, take them on a hike before expecting them to chill at a pet-friendly patio. If they thrive on social time, schedule a doggy daycare day each week.Don’t expect your dog to settle calmly in public without meeting their needs first. You’re not just their person—you’re their entire world. Give them what they need, and they’ll reward you with more years of love, loyalty, and adventure.

What if your dog could live 30–50% longer… and healthier?

pug puppy dog sitting in front of  blackboard sign with hand drawn chalk question marks

<h2>Dog Training Tips</h2><h3>Because your dog isn’t being difficult—they’re just trying to make sense of your mixed messages.</h3>We buy the bougie treats, research the best flight carriers, and refer to our dogs as our kids. But sometimes, even the most loving dog parents unknowingly confuse the heck out of their pups—especially when it comes to training.At Paws on Planes Inc., we work with pet parents and service dog handlers who want to raise well-behaved, travel-ready dogs. And we’ve seen it all. Here are the most common ways humans send their dogs into a behavioral tailspin—and how to clean it up.<figure id="figure-6f2ctdqwcsmbobyxs1"><img id="6f2ctdqwcsmbobyxs1" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1188365917/photo/soft-sofa-furniture-background-dog-lies-on-turquoise-velour-sofa-cozy-and-comfortable-home.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=NNrYlMt6BVBlhbWpzgPJcs1ewvlM3JdDNibqU1SWWl4=" alt="Soft sofa. Furniture background. Dog lies on turquoise velour sofa. Cozy and comfortable home interior." title="Soft sofa. Furniture background. Dog lies on turquoise velour sofa. Cozy and comfortable home interior." class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1188365917/photo/soft-sofa-furniture-background-dog-lies-on-turquoise-velour-sofa-cozy-and-comfortable-home.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=NNrYlMt6BVBlhbWpzgPJcs1ewvlM3JdDNibqU1SWWl4=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>1. Saying “Down” and “Off” Like They’re the Same Thing</h3>Let’s get this straight:<ul><li>“Down” = Lie down on the floor, bed, or mat.</li><li>“Off” = Get OFF the couch, the counter, or your Aunt Kathy.</li></ul>Mix them up, and your dog’s left guessing, “Am I relaxing or getting scolded?” ✨ Fix it: Reserve each word for one clear action. It’s a game-changer.<h3>2. Using “No” Without a Follow-Up</h3>Telling your dog “No” without offering an alternative is like a boss yelling at you without telling you how to do your job.<ul><li>Jumping on guests? Don’t just say “No”—say “Sit” or “Go to place.”</li><li>Stealing food? Redirect to “Leave it” or “Go lie down.”</li></ul>✨ Fix it: Always replace “No” with clear direction. Dogs want to get it right—they just need a chance.<figure id="figure-ongbplxjnombobz6hi"><img id="ongbplxjnombobz6hi" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/918982410/photo/dog-under-the-table.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=bLvkVlq_xMCh-iXAn4wawFSS1PzWre7gsTQprVjcIbY=" alt="Dog under the table" title="Dog under the table" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/918982410/photo/dog-under-the-table.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=bLvkVlq_xMCh-iXAn4wawFSS1PzWre7gsTQprVjcIbY=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>3. Playing Roulette with Table Scraps</h3>Feeding your dog “just one bite” off your plate is like lighting a match in a fireworks factory. They’ll remember. They’ll wait. And they’ll beg like it’s their job.✨ Fix it: Keep meals in their bowl, in their space. If you want to share food, do it away from the table and on your terms. You’re not mean—you’re setting them up for success.<h3>4. Abusing the Word “Come”</h3>“Come” should mean “drop everything and run to me.” But if you say “Come on!” during walks, or “Come” before bath time, you’re training your dog to ignore (or fear) the cue.✨ Fix it: ✅ Save “Come” for high-stakes recall. ✅ Use “Let’s go” for casual movement. ✅ Always reward recall like your life depends on it—because sometimes, it does.<figure id="figure-m9eokepv2imboc0xw1"><img id="m9eokepv2imboc0xw1" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1339079600/photo/happy-puppy-having-fun-running-on-the-beach.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=f0Ud_O7tqVz-ddDcg0KnwvuFVh8Hk-tF1qKzrYMIWY4=" alt="Happy puppy having fun running on the beach" title="Happy puppy having fun running on the beach" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1339079600/photo/happy-puppy-having-fun-running-on-the-beach.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=f0Ud_O7tqVz-ddDcg0KnwvuFVh8Hk-tF1qKzrYMIWY4=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>5. Hyping Your Dog Up—Then Expecting Calm</h3>“WANNA GO FOR A WALK!?!” And now your dog’s bouncing off the walls. But five seconds later you expect them to calmly sit for the leash? Yeah… good luck.✨ Fix it: Wait until your dog is calm before saying the cue. No baby talk, no hype. Calm first, fun second. That way, walks start with focus—not frenzy.<h3>6. Accidentally Rewarding Excitement</h3>You walk in the door and your dog’s doing zoomies, barking, leaping like a Cirque du Soleil act. You respond with excited baby talk and pets. Congrats—you just told them this is the behavior you love.✨ Fix it: Ignore until they settle, then reward calmness. Reinforce the energy you want to live with.<h3>7. Letting Your Stress Travel Down the Leash</h3>Your dog senses everything: tone of voice, body tension, your morning fight with TSA. If you’re anxious, they’re anxious. And that’s not ideal when you’re boarding a flight or navigating a new environment.✨ Fix it: Center yourself. Take a breath before a training session, a walk, or the boarding gate. Calm human = calmer dog.<h3>So, What’s the Takeaway?</h3>If your dog’s confused, they’re not being stubborn—they’re being human-handled. These behaviors are super common, and the good news? They’re easy to fix with clarity, consistency, and a little empathy.At Paws on Planes Inc., we specialize in helping pet parents train calm, confident travel companions—whether you're prepping for a flight or just want better day-to-day behavior.🦴 Want support with service dog or pet travel training? Let’s work together. [<a data-mce-href="https://pawsonplanesinc.com/lets-get-started" href="https://pawsonplanesinc.com/lets-get-started" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Book a consult here</a>] and start turning confusion into connection.

Training Fails 101: The Top Ways Humans Confuse Their Dogs

Lovely brown puppy with a small American Flag

<h3>It Shouldn’t Take a Battle to Get a Battle Buddy: What Veterans (and Civilians) Deserve to Know About Service Dogs</h3>A Reflective Look at Service Dogs, Systemic Barriers, and Local Solutions<figure id="figure-8gxvs5wvicmboawcac" class=""><img id="8gxvs5wvicmboawcac" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/545372214/photo/wheres-my-little-cutie.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=RBUWqE6FBEf3h4hFa6lfmaWH40JVOxR-CIE7LN1xlLM=" alt="Where's my little cutie!" title="Where's my little cutie!" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/545372214/photo/wheres-my-little-cutie.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=RBUWqE6FBEf3h4hFa6lfmaWH40JVOxR-CIE7LN1xlLM=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>Beyond the Quick Fix</h3>We live in a world addicted to speed. Same-day shipping. Instant downloads. Swipe-now answers.And when it comes to our mental health, society has followed suit. You walk into a doctor’s office feeling overwhelmed, anxious, depressed—and the first response is often a prescription. The "quick fix."But is it really fixing anything?Don’t get me wrong—medication can be life-saving for many, and there’s no shame in that. But we’ve created a culture where the only accepted solution is the fastest one. Where slowing down, exploring deeper tools, or finding connection outside of a pharmacy bottle often feels radical.I believe we need more than a cookie-cutter approach to mental health. We need something more creative, more holistic, more human.For me, that something was Luciano—my dog. What started as comfort turned into discovery: he was grounding me during panic attacks. Laying across my lap when the anxiety swelled. His presence became a lifeline. That’s when I found Deep Pressure Therapy (DPT)—a technique I hadn’t known by name, but had experienced in real-time.<blockquote>Luciano became my psychiatric service dog. And in a time when I felt like I was falling apart, he helped me piece myself back together.</blockquote>That transformation sparked the creation of Paws on Planes Inc.—a business built to help others find the same kind of support I never knew existed.And I’m not alone. There are countless people—especially veterans—who don’t need another pill. They need a battle buddy. A real one.That’s why I want to shine a light on Chip Neumann and the incredible work he’s doing through <a data-mce-href="https://www.midwestbattlebuddies.org/" href="https://www.midwestbattlebuddies.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Midwest Battle Buddies</a>. Here in the Midwest, Chip is helping veterans access trained service dogs in months (not years), without $50K price tags or impossible hoops to jump through.Because healing doesn’t have to be fast—it just has to be real.<h3>The Freedom They Fought For (And Still Deserve to Feel)</h3>The real fight doesn’t always end when the uniform comes off. For many veterans, the transition to civilian life includes a quiet, internal war—one filled with anxiety, flashbacks, and isolation. It’s a battle fought in silence, behind smiles, and beneath the surface.As Chip Neumann of Midwest Battle Buddies explains, “Every day over 20 veterans take their lives due to PTSD. However, it has been shown that 82% of those diagnosed with PTSD have symptom reduction after partnership with a service dog and another 40% reported a significant reduction in use of medications. The dog allows the handler the freedom to interact with the public in a positive light, knowing that he/she has a constant companion.”That’s not just sobering—it’s unacceptable that veterans are not receiving the proven help they need.&nbsp;<blockquote>Properly trained service dogs are more than companions. They’re life preservers for people navigating invisible disabilities. And this kind of support isn’t only for veterans.</blockquote><figure id="figure-ndfs1q9x5mboayrnh"><img id="ndfs1q9x5mboayrnh" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1212222505/photo/portrait-of-a-senior-farmer-with-his-dog.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=K-h_LtP1wL42Ovdyx15enfCezAJEDWJ1jAjTtOsefiU=" alt="Portrait of a Senior Farmer with his Dog" title="Portrait of a Senior Farmer with his Dog" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1212222505/photo/portrait-of-a-senior-farmer-with-his-dog.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=K-h_LtP1wL42Ovdyx15enfCezAJEDWJ1jAjTtOsefiU=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>Beyond the Battlefield</h3>While much of the conversation around psychiatric service dogs rightfully focuses on veterans, the truth is—you don’t need to wear a uniform to be fighting a battle.Mental health challenges don’t discriminate. Anxiety, PTSD, depression, social phobias, and trauma impact people from every walk of life. And for many, a trained service dog becomes more than a companion—it becomes their calm in the chaos.Psychiatric service dogs can be trained to:<ul><li>Interrupt panic attacks before they spiral</li><li>Wake someone from debilitating night terrors</li><li>Apply deep pressure therapy (DPT) to ground anxiety</li><li>Create space in overwhelming crowds</li><li>Provide medication reminders or alert others in emergencies</li></ul>In addition to the task work— Service Dogs restore a sense of safety, independence, and connection.If your mental health is affecting your ability to function or to live fully—you’re not alone, and there are options.At Paws on Planes, we work with people from all walks of life—veterans, parents, businesswomen, students.Beyond the task work, dogs reduce stress at a biological level. Studies show:<ul><li>Interacting with dogs lowers cortisol (the stress hormone)</li><li>Petting a dog raises oxytocin (the bonding/love hormone)</li><li>Dogs can reduce blood pressure and heart rate, promoting overall well-being</li></ul><blockquote>For me, Luciano can reduce my level 12 anxiety down to a manageable level within minutes.&nbsp;</blockquote><figure id="figure-chik0dqwdcmbob5e6g"><img id="chik0dqwdcmbob5e6g" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/2KHdXv0szAiPYAEUp8Tf5ORYPnPYgAcZZYaNLpJl24N4C8Rvg3jP0DDPzudJu8gf.jpg" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/2KHdXv0szAiPYAEUp8Tf5ORYPnPYgAcZZYaNLpJl24N4C8Rvg3jP0DDPzudJu8gf.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>When the System Gets in the Way</h3>Legislation like the SAVES Act is designed to help veterans get access to service dogs through government grants. But there’s a major flaw: the requirement that nonprofits be accredited by specific organizations like Assistance Dogs International (ADI).While well-intentioned, this requirement excludes local nonprofits like Midwest Battle Buddies—who are getting dogs to veterans in months, not years, and for a fraction of the cost.The result? Veterans are put on waitlists up to seven years long, while struggling today.Meanwhile, local, community-based organizations are sidelined.<h3>Service Dog Support Doesn’t Stop at the Door</h3>At Paws on Planes Inc., we help clients confidently travel with their service dogs—from navigating paperwork and TSA protocols to making sure your pup fits comfortably within the footprint of your airplane seat.But that journey doesn’t start at the airport. It starts with organizations like <a data-mce-href="https://www.midwestbattlebuddies.org/" href="https://www.midwestbattlebuddies.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Midwest Battle Buddie</a>s.Led by people like Chip Neumann in Wichita, Kansas, Midwest Battle Buddies is changing lives by pairing veterans with service dogs and providing free, ongoing group training. These sessions empower veterans to be active participants in their dog’s training, deepen the human–canine bond, and create a powerful sense of community among fellow veterans.There’s no cost for the dog, the training, or the certification. Just the pride that comes with being a Battle Buddy.<h3>How to Find (or provide) Support Where You Live</h3>Looking to begin your service dog journey—or help someone else start theirs? Here are a few ways to find real, reliable support:<ul><li>Search for nonprofits working with veterans or psychiatric service dogs in your area</li><li>Talk to your therapist or VA rep about local referrals</li><li>Avoid "instant certification" scams promising legality with a vest and a $99 card</li></ul>Use Midwest Battle Buddies as a benchmark: values-driven, client-focused, and mission-first. Visit their site here → <a data-mce-href="https://www.midwestbattlebuddies.org/" href="https://www.midwestbattlebuddies.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">LEARN MORE</a>.&nbsp; Veteran or not, you deserve the support that helps you move through the world with dignity. Whether you’re looking to start your service dog journey—or already navigating air travel with one—resources exist.Let’s connect you with the right ones.🛫 Book a Consult with Paws on Planes - <a data-mce-href="https://pawsonplanesinc.com/lets-get-started" href="https://pawsonplanesinc.com/lets-get-started" target="_blank" rel="noopener">LEARN MORE</a>.🐕 Learn More About Midwest Battle Buddies - <a data-mce-href="https://www.midwestbattlebuddies.org/" href="https://www.midwestbattlebuddies.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">LEARN MORE</a>.<figure id="figure-7wrlsw9vglmbobc06v"><img id="7wrlsw9vglmbobc06v" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/697551974/photo/independence-day-4th-of-july-dog.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=8-_ZYrybLsQ30FeXV4-3pH1b8wlvfXRon1DgUu2nAJQ=" alt="independence day 4th of july dog" title="independence day 4th of july dog" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/697551974/photo/independence-day-4th-of-july-dog.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=8-_ZYrybLsQ30FeXV4-3pH1b8wlvfXRon1DgUu2nAJQ=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>

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