Many questions...

[Kirsten]

Roxie, making your own decisions is fine, but it is important to think through the potential consequences of decisions.  If it's going to cost you a relationship, or will damage a relationship, then that's one of the considerations that should be made.  I know, for example, that you (Roxie) care deeply about accidentally hurting someone else's feelings.  You're one of the biggest-hearted people I know.  If this decision is something that is going to cause strain in family relations, then those consequences should be considered.  Maybe the person decides it won't be bad, so they proceed.  Or maybe they decide it will probably be very bad, but they choose to proceed anyway.  And maybe they decide that the consequences aren't worth the potential gain to them.  It's all still their choice.

However, it's those consequences that people often over look when making decisions they know others disapprove of.  So it may bear reminding to consider them.  I'll use me as an example.  I had a falling out with a close friend and decided it was not healthy for me to have further contact with her.  What I didn't think all the way through was the fact that that meant leaving behind several friends we had in common, or friends I only interacted with in group meetings with the person I chose to avoid.  That decision cost me more than I anticipated and hurt me more than I anticipated because I did not think it all the way through, the consequences, I mean.  I might still have made the same choice, or I might have made a different one.  There's no telling.  I did learn a lesson, however, to pay better attention to potential consequences instead of just focusing on being in the right and doing what was best in the moment.

[HopelessHeartsMarie]

My parents are actually looking at the fact I gave them about ESA and I hope to hear from them soon.
What they talk about most is money.  Taking care of an animal like a dog costs and I don't get alot from SSI.
Is there anything that can be done to help with the costs or do I have to just wait and figure something out?

[BlindMag]

Buying the dog will be the least expense. You'll need to budget for things like vet bills, puppy shots series if you get a puppy, feed and supplies, bowls, crate, toys, treats, collar and leash at least; then there's a basic dog training and or puppy class and then you'll still have vet fees after that.  Small pet dogs need training too.  They often need more dental care and can be interesting to house train.

[hopesclan]

Yup.  It is very expensive to own a dog and your parents are wise to be cautious.  It is definitely time to do a budget.  Are you getting by on your own income right now and do you have $50-100 a month to set aside to start saving?  Showing that you can do that financially might both get your parents on your side and create an important nest egg for later on.  Regular vet upkeep can be pricey and it is always best to have AT LEAST $500 available in case of an emergency.  I budget $100 a month for my dog and stick what I don't use in an emergency fund along with $50 extra if I have it.  I don't know of any programs to help with ESA upkeep, but some vets give discounts for PWDs so look around.  Taking your dog to obedience school would also be important if you want a well socialized and trained dog.  It would be best to try to find a school before getting the dog so you have the correct support system in place.

I thing it is very important to keep in mind that this will be an exception to a 'no pets' policy which comes with its own challenges.  Firstly, house training is very important (and can be difficult with many small dogs).  It might even be best to find an older dog already reliable in house training.  The second thing that you need to be careful about is barking.  Little dogs are known barkers and these would be the two main reasons management decides on 'no pet' policies and grounds for asking you to get rid of the dog or eviction.

[HopelessHeartsMarie]

The down side to saving money on the side is I'm only allowed so much money in my possession at one time and if I go over that, I get deducted money in the future.
But I do figure I can save so much and have it on hand as long as I don't go over.
My parents are talking and I'm talking with them when I can. 
I just really think that an ESA would be a benifit to me.

[Roxie]

Thanks, Kirsten for taking the time to help me "get it".  I kinda do now at least bit a better.

I do have a big heart. Because I have been deeply hurt physically and mentally repeatedly since I can remember.... I like to try to help others not feel those things. 

I also have a big mouth (which I try to use as an asset---- and successful doing that most of tthe time) and I always feel horrible when I say something that comes off as abrupt and insensitive. I say things wrong now and then without meaning to.

I envy those who have parents (after 54 years, I still cry missing my Mom and wondering "who" I really am: but I will never know that) or someone who cares about them. I'm so alone in life (not new... always have been), if it weren't for my dogs and  my former horses and my art and colors and camera and my books.....    I don't think i would be around.

Thanks.

Oh!! to HH Marie-  Really: where there is a will there is a way. Most dogs are pretty healthy. There are numerous ways to cut vet bills like crazy. You are talking about getting a micro-dog - you will be able to afford premium nutrition as it will only eat a tad a day!  If you develop a good relation long term with a vet, they will probably teach you how to manage much vet care at home. I've learned to do my own routine vaccinations - except for the 3 yr rabies shot.

Many communities have special reduced-rate vaccination and heartworm clinics.

Many times a vet you have for a time will take payments when bills are high or care is needed.

Sara (age 13) has only been to the vet maybe 6-8 times in her entire life! All routine visits. No emergencies.  Now Tay has been in ICU for Ibuprofen poisoning, ER after hours for neurological reaction to Sargent's Flea spot on, several ear infections urgent care, plus the routine care. (He actually is the most vet expensive dog I've had in my life!)

Many communities have non-profit groups that can help with unexpected vet costs or a bag of food now and then.

I, too am with very little money but I have always managed to care for 2-3 dogs plus me. I give up  buying stuff for me in order to provide for my dogs when I have to. I don't mind at all because they mean the world to me.

Never be afraid to try. And always believe "I can do this. I can make this a success." You can save nest egg money. I believe you can have $2,500. plus a vehicle and your home and your personal possessions.
 
Roxie

[hopesclan]

The down side to saving money on the side is I'm only allowed so much money in my possession at one time and if I go over that, I get deducted money in the future.

I believe the limit is $3000 (there abouts...check first).  Do you already have that much saved?  If you ever do make it to $3000 there are ways to create a way for your parents can save it for you (I believe... you would have to look into the legal bits of that).  I manage very well on my SSI check, mostly because I am terrified of shopping (seriously...it's a major issue) and I have subsidized housing and food stamps.  Other people struggle horribly and never make ends meet.  It's important to really look at where you are on the money management spectrum and really determine what is the best.  A dog can be very beneficial.  It's just important to look at the whole picture.

[HopelessHeartsMarie]

Thanks Roxie
hopesclan, I still have to look into food stamps.  My family and I keep forgetting to do that.
I really hope we can figure out the money situation soon

[Kirsten]

In my state the limit is $1,000.  Veterinary pet insurance might be a partial solution.  It breaks down into monthly payments and would often cover expenses from unexpected illness or injury.  Some policies cover annual vaccinations and even spay/neuter.

There are food stamps, energy assistance programs, and in some cases local charities that will assist with pets in situations like yours.  I had a client with an emotional support cat who became ill and required a prescription diet.  I hooked her up with a local charity that donated a three month supply of his special food and gave her some holiday gifts for him as well at Christmas.  You don't know unless you check around.

[HopelessHeartsMarie]

Huh, I've never thought about some of thoughs things and I don't think I every would have.
Thanks for informing me.  I'm really clueless to the whole thing. 
I just found out about it this weekend.