Gianni’s Life is Calmer with Autism Assist Dog Peetie

Life with a child who has a special need can be difficult. Ashley, mom to Gianni, says that before they got an assistance dog, “Typical days were stressful as Gianni would have meltdowns frequently.” She would do her best to try to calm him down by hugging and talking with him, but even that came with additional challenges. She says it meant “time being pulled away from other family members to care for Gianni and help regulate emotions.”

Now, black Lab Peetie—Gianni’s Autism Assist Dog—is there to share the load. Peetie helps Gianni handle his emotions, calm him, and keep him from eloping, or bolting away. Ashley adds that he was also trained “how to go get Mom for Gianni.” 

Describing Peetie as “loving, caring, and smart,” Ashley says that upon meeting his new furry friend, Gianni “was filled with happiness and excitement.” That bond has continued to grow, and according to Ashley, “They’re besties!” The two enjoy playing catch together and snuggling.

Ashley confirms that Peetie “is a part of our family now.” Responding that life feels “complete” with an assistance dog, she says, “It's a lot more quiet here now with Peetie.” She is more relaxed, especially since she can gladly report that Peetie stops Gianni from eloping.

Feeling “forever grateful” for their new reality, Ashley has a message to those who helped lead Peetie to them: “Thank you so much for everything you do!!!! You gave my son a companion and trained him with the skills he needed to be a service to my child.”

Thank you to all those who made this partnership possible:

Whelping Home — Mark and Kim Diekmann
Raiser — Pauline Beckmann
Special Thanks — Federal Prison Camp-Duluth, Jackson Correctional Institution, Stanley Correctional Institution, University of Minnesota FETCH Program (Anna Vandewettering)
Name-A-Puppy Donor — Carol Noren and Skip Wyland