Hey Gypsy,
I asked Sofia to avoid that for now, as there are no "specific" journal articles regarding the phych. effects when riding dogs. We would need to use analogies with other physically stressful events. First, I'd like to convince them with the proper docs that this is a physically stressful event and will lead to medical problems should it continue. Then once they accept this we can argue from with documented evidence of the reactions of dogs to a repeated stressful and painful stimulous. Although this is a no brainer for most of us...it is not for them. So, we are taking one step at a time....don't want to give them more than they can handle at once now.
Let me know if you think we should start a new thread with Sofia's letter for additional input. We can do that as well as ask for everyone to indicate if they would like their name and town added to the letter. Everyone is welcome once completed to send it to their local vets as well. The greater number of vets who this suddenly becomes an issue for, the greater chance this could be addressed at a national meeting. Happens in dentistry and medicine all the time.
Deena
