The dog actually helps him walk. He has been able to switch from his walker to a cane, and it has really helped his gait. The dog’s gait encourages him to get a rhythm going, and the leash seems to help with the freezing.
He has never been much of a dog person, but since the depression and anxiety have set in, he feels he has lost everything he once valued, like his ability to work. Taking the dog for a walk seems to give him a sense of purpose and security.
His parkinson’s specialist has referred him to the Mayo Clinic in September, to see if they can do anything to help with his autonomic nervous system failure, or if there are any other options to treat his medication-resistant depression.
If the dog gives him any comfort, I think it is worth getting him qualified, and as I said before, the dog would be in one of those carriers with rollers (when in public places), which my husband could also use to improve his stability.