Gavin deals with a disability that is more than what meets the eye, especially considering eye contact has been a challenge for him. At 5 years old, Gavin was diagnosed with autism, after spending several days testing at Mayo Clinic. His mother, Jenny, didn’t know other children with autism, but some resources at Mayo had suggested an autism assistance dog. Then, a family friend who was involved with Can Do Canines introduced Jenny to this organization. Gavin had been initially fearful of dogs, but during the application process time period, he began reading to a therapy dog at school and …
autism assist dog
A Stressful Spiral Becomes Successful Cycle
If you couldn’t cope with being overwhelmed, feeling safe by yourself, or expressing how you felt so others would understand, where would you turn for unconditional love? In the midst of a pandemic, Draven was able to find that understanding friend with a heart just as big as his own. Draven lives with his mother, Katie; twin sister, Willow; older brother, Drake; and pet cats. Draven also has lived with Autism Spectrum Disorder, as well as various other conditions that affect his ability to self-regulate and communicate. Drake has similar disability needs, and Willow strives to manage the various challenges. …
New Companion Paves a Smoother Path
As a bright, energetic young girl with autism, Ava thrives on structure and routine. She struggles to cope with sensory issues and transitions, and being overwhelmed sometimes leads to meltdowns. Since being diagnosed with autism when she was about 3 years old, Ava has been using multiple techniques and resources to help her handle emotions. Despite many efforts, she still experiences angry outbursts, anxiety, and stimming behaviors. Ava’s family limited activities to try to prevent emotional reactions. Ava’s mother, Diane, saw a story on the news about Can Do Canines, and the very next day, a co-worker encouraged her to …
Stella Brings Safety, Comfort and Companionship to Robbie
Robbie is an active boy. Like most kids his age, he enjoys hands-on learning and exploring. Robbie was diagnosed with Autism and thrives on calm. He is not able to cope with stressful situations, focus amid distractions, or communicate what his needs are. Robbie’s family each had to learn how they are best able to support him, but they were looking for help to make it easier and allow them more freedom to explore other activities. Roxanne, Robbie’s mother, said he has always struggled with being overstimulated, distracted, restless, and worried about his routine. He would frequently have outbursts and …
A Quiet Friend to Help Jackson Find His Voice
It takes a very special dog to see someone who is upset and calmly enter their space of distress to comfort them. Children with autism, like Jackson, need these dogs to help them handle the overabundance of stimulation that surrounds them. In 2014, Jackson was diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder after his parents and doctors became concerned that he wasn’t exhibiting the same behaviors as other toddlers. As he spent more time in social settings, it became apparent he would require specialized support to keep him safe and happy. Jackson would often run away from people or act impulsively, not …
Truly Amazing
In 2016 when he was 10 years old, Nicholas was matched with Autism Assist Dog Truly. His family wanted a dog that would help Nicholas from wandering, ease his anxiety, and comfort him at night. Truly has been … truly amazing. Recently, Nicholas asked his mom, Paula, “When can I go to Can Do Canines and tell them how much I love Truly and how much she helps me?” “Being a mom of a child with autism and a pediatrician, this is huge,” explains Paula. “People with autism have a hard time expressing feelings, verbalizing feelings, and a tremendously hard …
With the Help of Four Paws
Trent Korpela and Autism Assist Dog Georgie Second-grader Trent enjoys swinging on his tire swing and going on walks and hikes. His parents say he’s very active and always on the move. “He loves balloons,” adds Dorothy, Trent’s younger sister; specifically, letting them go and watching them float up into the sky. Trent has autism and has been receiving therapies since the age of two. Now at 8 years old, he’s adjusting to life with a furry helper by his side. Trent’s parents, Kelly and Paul, got Trent on the Can Do Canines waiting list when he was 3 and …