Before getting a service dog for their autistic son, the Isaacs of Wellington, New Zealand were unable to enjoy time at a café and have a cup of coffee. Now, life is significantly easier for all of them due to the assistance of the friendly dog.
James Isaac is nonverbal and autistic. He dislikes establishing eye contact with anybody, including his family, and he also dislikes being touched.
Moreover, James is prone to anxiety, particularly in strange environments. The combination of his anxiousness and impulsivity is a prescription for disaster. When he is overstimulated, the youngster could run away and become lost.
So, the Isaacs chose to acquire a dog from Assistance Dogs New Zealand. In the end, they were paired with a black Labrador named Mahe.
According to Wendy Isaacs, manager of fundraising development for the organization, the relationship between assistance dogs and autistic youngsters is nearly miraculous. They will gaze into the dog’s eyes and touch him as they do with no other animal.
Since Mahe’s arrival, the Isaacs have once again been able to enjoy family outings. Parents can tether James to the service dog and rest assured that Mahe will never allow the youngster to escape their sight.
When James begins walking in a different direction or directly into the road, Mahe maintains his position by remaining stationary. When the child must wait for his parents, the service dog keeps him occupied.
Also, Mahe’s presence proved crucial during a hospital visit. James had experienced a few convulsions, so his physician ordered an MRI to establish their cause.
The service dog lay beside the child for some time before the treatment. Mahe waited with James’s mother throughout the scan, but he was with the child in the recovery room thereafter.
James was likely terrified and disoriented when the anesthetic wore off. But, his parents observed that he calmed down when seeing Mahe by his side. The relief in the child’s eyes as he stared at his puppy, despite his inability to speak, told volumes.
If the seizures persist, the Labrador could receive more training to assist him to alert the parents before the seizures occur.
Source: James Isaac