Valerie Parrott suffers from an anxiety disorder, panic attacks, and migraines. And one thing that made a difference in her life was having her service dog, Bella, by her side at all times. Bella’s comforting presence proved to be more valuable during Valerie’s wedding.
Bella and Valerie
Valerie has been struggling with panic disorder and anxiety for a very long time. But everything changed in 2013 when she met Bella, a yellow Labrador. Bella is not just an ordinary pooch. She’s a service dog.
Since then, Valerie never went anywhere without Bella in tow. Trained to detect increased heart rate and impending anxiety attacks, Bella would promptly alert Valerie before things got worse. Bella instinctively licks her hand or nudges her when she senses an attack coming.
Calming pre-wedding jitters
When Valerie was about to tie the knot with her boyfriend, Andrew, she knew Bella had to be there. Not just because Bella is her service dog, but because the dog has become such an essential part of her life. The dog is also her baby and best friend.
But weddings give all sorts of jitters. It’s common for most brides to experience nerves on their wedding day, Valerie said, but if you already have an anxiety disorder in the first place, the feeling is three times worse. So when Valerie’s heart started to beat more rapidly, she knew she needed Bella right away.
Bella sensed that Valerie needed her, so she went close to her mom and gave her comfort. Their mere closeness helped diminish Valerie’s anxieties. In a few moments, she was calm and composed and ready to walk down the aisle.
Flunked by her dad on one side, and Bella on another, Valerie made it through the entire ceremony without any trouble. Valerie took much comfort knowing that Bella would always be there. For that, she’s forever grateful to her furry best friend.
Thanks to Maddie Peschong
