Service Dogs with Trainer Mary McNeight & POTS patient Makenzie

This episode of The POTS PCAST features a discussion on the use of service dogs as a nonpharmacological management strategy for patients with POTS. The podcast features Mary McNeight, a service dog trainer, and Makenzie, a POTS patient who uses a service dog. Mary explains how service dogs are trained to detect subtle biochemical changes in their owner's body that precede a POTS episode, thanks to their highly developed sense of smell. Makenzie shares her personal experiences with her service dog, Odin, who alerts her in advance of passing out episodes, providing a window of time to take preventive measures. This has helped her maintain independence in daily activities like going to college. Mary also discusses the importance of selecting the right dog and working with experienced trainers. The episode touches on the commitment and public visibility that comes with being accompanied by a service dog, providing a detailed overview for anyone with POTS considering a service dog for medical alerts.