After the shock wore off we began the process of accessing supports and therapies. She was having many struggles at that time with communication, sensory overload and socialization. We began several different therapies including Speech and Language, Occupational Therapy and DIR Floortime. We were so happy when we saw that she began to flourish and was able to communicate her needs and wants. We had a new relationship with our daughter but yet there were still some things that she was struggling with. She still had difficulties with crowds and loud noises and was not socializing with her peers. She also began to wander off at school and in the community. This caused a great deal of concern for both her dad and I, as well as the school regarding her safety.

We had friends who had acquired a service dog through MSAR (Manitoba Search and Rescue) and we began speaking to them and doing some research. When our daughter was 6 years old I contacted George Leonard (Master Dog Trainer) to discuss the option of a dog. We were quickly brought in to meet several of his top notch K9’s who were all absolutely amazing!! Unfortunately, my allergies were a big problem and it seemed as though this was not going to be a viable option. Low and behold as fate would have it he happened to have a big black Labradoodle (Scottie) who was living with Janet (one of his trainers). We met him and that was the beginning of our new life. My daughter was terrified of dogs but within a few visits with Janet and Scottie she was touching him and showing him affection.

She has her own leash and has never let it go when she is with him. He was brought to us for the first weekend visit at the beginning of July 2015 and has never left. He has been her companion and protector. She finally has a friend who accepts her fully and completely for who she is. Through her ups and downs he is there for her unconditionally and we couldn’t be more grateful for the relationship they are building with each other! Scottie attends school with her full-time. He has helped us keep her close and safe and has opened up her ability to connect with her peers and accept responsibility. She has begun using him as a way to regulate herself when she is feeling overwhelmed by her surroundings and will seek him out when she feels upset. He sleeps with her which has provided her comfort and alleviated any fears she may have had.

This is exactly what OUR daughter needed and I am so happy to see them together it often brings happy tears to my eyes. A service dog may not be the right option for everybody but it was the missing piece of our puzzle. He has completed our family.