Jean,
I'm crying as I read this piece. I'm up in Whistler, BC and was told by many family memebers not to count on staying at their condo if I brought my therapy-companion dogs. I had to arrange alternative reservations for my own place as my family mocked the need for me to bring my dogs,thinking they were best left behind. The truth is I have encountered rape, emotional abuse and a physical attack coupled with hostile threats. The intensisity of holidays -trips away from my home and the fear that arrises around men and people touching me in any fashion without permission can be intense and unpredictable at times. I'm crying because on my walk home with other family members an hour ago, they mocked my need to return to the condo to see the dogs so quickly, thinking it a nuissance. The truth is my two dogs comfort me in these moments of tears and pain. They also bring me joy and happiness as I still remain single and continue to heal and become stronger. I'm highly sensative to there well being and people that mistreat them with words or action. My reading your article only clairifies "truth" I am not alone in knowing the peace and safety of my unconditional dogs and our deep connection with me a former victom of abuse. They have blessed me more than they will ever know, as have you too in speaking out with the truth and informing others of this sort of canine healing!

Warmest regards,

ECA-Bellevue,WA