Those who are dealing with PTSD can get a service dog to help them.
The service dogs are special dogs that undergo a special training process to be there for you and help you cope with day-to-day difficulties (physical and emotional)
A service dog may, for example:
- Identify and alert of an increase in the level of anxiety.
- Pull you out and "ground" you during an anxiety attack or flashback and suggest comforting behavior.
- Wake you up from nightmares.
- Provide "pressure points" after a seizure to help regulate pulse and respiration.
- Lead you to a quiet and safe place in the event of a seizure in a public space.
Conditions of eligibility for the service
You may be entitled to receive a service dog if you meet these two conditions:
- You have been determined to have at least 20% disability (or 10% if your injury was recognized by 31.12.1995).
- The injury was recognized as an injury related to PTSD.
How do I get a service dog?
The training process for service dogs is very long and the number of dogs is limited. Therefore, each application is examined according to the severity of the symptoms, urgency of the need, the dog's ability to meet the needs of the applicant and the applicant's ability to handle the service dog in various aspects.
In order for us to examine the possibility of provide you a service dog assistance, please contact the rehabilitation social worker who accompanies you.
Please note that the service dog will remain throughout its life owned by the party that provides it. Before receiving the dog, a borrowing contract will be signed between the recipient and you.
Expenses payment
Those who receive a service dog are also entitled to a fixed monthly payment of NIS 396 to cover expenses such as dog food, dog equipment, etc.
This benefit is paid to recipients of the service each month.
Reimbursement of expenses for those who bought a service dog independently
If you bought a service dog independently in the five years preceding the start of the reform (1.8.21), you can apply for reimbursement of expenses for the purchase of the dog and receive a fixed monthly benefit to cover its care.
- It is possible to submit a claim for this benefit if the dog was purchased from an authorized supplier under the Ministry of Defense agreements for service dogs training, and against proof of payment.
- You must attach to your claim a tax invoice or original receipt and confirm that it is a qualified framework.
To receive a refund you need to contact the social worker in rehabilitation that follows you.