Piglet,

Anthony is right, I agree 'never be without a dog'. People underestimate the beautiful creatures that they are AND they love you and love you some more. I am sorry you are having such a hard time of it. I can't offer much help on the PTSD front but I consider that you are one tough cookie to put yourself back in the environment. Hopefully, as you get stronger, the impact that your brother can have will be so much less. See what happens then, when the power shifts. I am not so certain that he will be the cocky, bully that you have described then..........I think you will find the opposite. Hang in there, I hope you feel better soon.