Welcome to Jacques-a-Meaux Adventures, a site dedicated to spreading awareness about the benefits of service dogs for those suffering from PTSD or other mental health issues. Jacques-a-Meaux is a CPTSD service dog and the inspiration behind this page. Join us on our journey to spread awareness and break stigmas.
Be sure to check out our store! Our Jacques-A-Meaux merchandise is not only stylish and comfortable but also supports a great cause. With every purchase, you're helping to provide education, training, and assistance to those in need of a service animal. Choose from our selection of t-shirts, hats, and accessories to show your support and make a difference in someone's life. Thank you for being a part of our mission!
OUR STORY
Jacques-a-Meaux's journey did not follow the typical path to becoming a service animal. He was surrendered to Take Paws Rescue by his original owners during the Covid lockdown in 2020. He was around 10 months old. His picture was posted on the Take Paws Rescue page. The moment I saw the picture, I knew he belonged with me! I thought he would be my buddy, but little did I know how he would change my life!
Around this time, I was undergoing testing and therapy for anxiety as well as other issues. I was ultimately diagnosed with Complex Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (cPTSD). At times, I experienced episodes of dizziness, nausea along with blurred vision. I never even considered the possibility that I could benefit from a service dog, but Jacques knew that was exactly what I needed!
He began to jump into action when an episode would begin. He would bump my hand or leg to alert me which allowed me to regain my focus. He can sense them coming on before I do! Once I realized this, I began researching service animals and decided to pursue certification for Jacques.
I brought the idea to my therapist, and she was on board with the plan. I've always had a knack for dog obedience training, so he was already very disciplined. With some specialized training and lots of socialization, I was able to have him evaluated and certified as a PTSD service dog. Not long after I had 2 rounds of EEG tests to rule out epilepsy. The morning I went into my neurologist office, I had a full blown episode in the waiting room that the front office staff witnessed. Once I saw my doc, he told me to never leave the house without Jacques again, and I haven't.
GALLERY
LEARN MORE
You can read more about my story through my book, Broken Lenses. Purchase through the link below. A portion of the proceeds will go to help fund the counseling program at Fellowship Church in Ascension Parish, Louisiana.
Broken Lenses started as a therapy exercise and turned into the biggest leap forward in his healing. Shawn's wish for this book is to help others that are in similar situations realize that there are people that want to help you. There is hope for all of us, and there is also help.
