Results for: Emotional Support Animal

Dave and Sherry Hilderman, a Calgary senior couple, are facing potential eviction for refusing to give up their cat, Baby Girl, an emotional support animal acquired during Sherry’s battle with depression. Despite receiving eviction notice from Silvera for Seniors, citing violations of the building’s pet policy, the couple claims they already received concessions on the issue and deny making unauthorized alterations. Silvera for Seniors has proposed alternative accommodations in its pet-friendly buildings, but the costs are significantly higher than their current subsidized rent. The Hildermans face a dilemma, balancing their need for emotional support with the financial constraints that accompany the proposed alternatives. As shelters experience increased occupancy, including seniors, organizations are exploring new models of care to address the growing challenges faced by vulnerable populations.

Freddie, a 4-year-old goldendoodle, spends his days at American Medical Response (AMR) in Springfield, where he provides emotional support services to first responders and other employees. Freddie is trained in basic obedience and is accustomed to crowds and equipment, which makes him a calming presence in the often-stressful workplace. He visits classrooms, greets people in the hallways, and even helps teach responders how to take a dog’s pulse in accordance with Nero’s Law, which requires EMTs to complete training on how to treat and safely transport injured police dogs. Freddie also accompanies his handler, Melissa Piscatelli, to respond to mass casualty incidents, critical incident stress management debriefings, natural disasters, and large-scale events.