I am applying for an Autism Service Dog for my son through a non-profit agency,
4 Paws for Ability, in Ohio (we live in Northern BC, Canada). I haven't made this decision lightly...I've discussed this with my family and with Thor's doctor and therapists. We all agree - if there is help for my son in the form of a service dog, we owe it to him to do this.
Yes, there are places that offer service dogs in Canada. But we would have to wait until Thor was nearly 4 years old before even applying...and then there is a 2-5 year wait for placement. Most importantly, the agency I've chosen is unique in that they will train Thor's service dog to track him if he runs from my sight, and for behaviour interruption - for the times when Thor hits himself due to anxiety and over-stimulation. They also have no age restriction, because they understand that even little people can benefit from a service animal (Thor will be 3 by the time he is matched with a service dog).
This blog will chronicle the application process, the waiting, the training, and what it's like once we bring Thor's dog home. Oh - and you can expect updates on Thor throughout the process!
