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October is National Adopt a Shelter Dog Month!

Posted by Gracie on September 16, 2002 at 14:09:37:

In Reply to: Special needs kids and dogs posted by lynn on September 14, 2002 at 16:14:31:

Hi, Lynn:

I don't know if I can help, but your post caught my eye...

We recently bought a puppy to be trained as a service dog for my 7 year old autistic son. Although my situation is different than the family you are working with, I might be able to shed some light on how we choose our puppy. Autism has a wide range and the family needs to take into account what the boy's specific challenges are...For instance, if he is senesitive to noise, it would be best to get a breed that's not a big barker...Is their son verbal? Are they hoping to train the dog to help their son or use the dog in amore theraputic way?

If you think I could help, please feel free to pass along my email address: dana@imanageproperty.com

Best Regards,
Gracie

:I helped a lady at the shelter today who was interested in a dog for her family which includes a 10 year old autistic son. Ultimately, I was able to point her toward a local all breed rescue group who's chairwoman has a special needs son. I think this was by far the best spur of the moment solution. There the family would be able to see how a dog acted in its foster home environment before taking it into their home.

:Does anyone have any pointers for adopting to families with special needs children? The parents were committed to doing this right and willing to get all necessary education for themselves, the dog and their son.

:Thanks.
:Lynn

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