Many are wondering why Selma Blair needs a service dog named Scout after appearing with him on the red carpet, film festivals, and other events. The actress, who is 52 years old in early 2025, also occasionally supports herself with a cane, making fans ask what kind of disease or condition she might have. Scout, an English red fox labrador retriever, supports her if she ever needs to catch her footing and regain her balance. Here’s the reason Selma Blair needs Scout by her side.
Why does Selma Blair need a service dog?
Selma Blair needs a service dog because of multiple sclerosis, which she was diagnosed with in August 2018.
Also abbreviated as MS, multiple sclerosis is caused by the breakdown of nerves where the immune system begins attacking the protective covering called myelin surrounding them, according to Mayo Clinic. This can causes an interruption between the brain and the other parts of the body, making it difficult for the person to walk or move. The condition has no known cure, but many treatments are available to assist in recovering from attacks and manage symptoms.
Fortunately, Blair’s condition was put into remission after stem cell treatments in 2021. As part of her recovery, she said in People that her neurologist suggesting she train a service dog for physical and emotional reasons. She later announced on Instagram in December 2021,that she and Scout graduated as a service dog team after a year and a half of training.
Since then, the Cruel Intentions actress said in SELF that she and Scout have “a charming, therapeutic bond.” Blair is amazed at how many admirers Scout has, humorously saying that “it feels like I’m dating the guy from the football team” and “like I finally have a cute boyfriend.”
Scout’s visibility as a service dog has also helped Blair spread awareness of multiple sclerosis. He can also be seen in clips during her run on Dancing With The Stars Season 31, though she had to withdraw due to health reasons from her condition.
