In the list of inspiring people across America, there is one with innovative thought and lifestyle that has changed tons of lives. But it’s not the lives of us – humans – but those of out four-legged woofy friends known for their loyalty.
Yes. I’m talking about Bonnie Bergin and her mission in using dogs as helpers for the disabled. Read below to know how the mystery unfurls itself in the form of mental and physical therapy.
That’s what I heard in the podcast of Mike O’Sullivan on VOA. That was an ennobling story.
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When I recalled, it provoked a question in me of which is the brilliant touching story for special needs child today?
Come with me and find out.
There was another brilliant touching story about a dog and his crippled little human friend that broke me into tears.
Ride the Wave Love Sofia and Haole the Surf Dog
The Golden Retriever Haole is a therapy dog as well as skillful surfer from “A Walk On Water” based in California.
For me, Labrador seems to be the best dog for a special needs child. They are smart and so full of energy. But Haole seems to be a very unique individual.
Not only because his patient is one with Down Syndrome, but Haole has the capability to commune and inspire. He woke up the courage and dream in Sofia and stepped her to the ocean.
How touching it was reading the path of Sofia – like many mentally challenged kids learning to swim/surf – conquering her fear to become a surf girl with the help of Haole. That’s when I know dreams are never an illusion. No matter how big it is, you can still make your dreams come true if you never give up.
I suggest anyone who’s living with a dream but always hesitate to act for it to read this book. You will know life is not all about materials. There are little things to thrive for and embrace. A dog knows that. Why not you?
Get the book here.
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The Best Dog for Special Needs Child
I always feel like it’s never enough to overstate the immeasurable help dogs have brought to our lives. The house pets alone are already ones come with unconditional love, let alone those that serve the disabled.
Many dogs become service dogs to help the handicapped, navigate, soothe frayed nerves, and even save lives. Beyond that, they pass energy to encourage the crippled ones to continue their lives.
Among those that interact with multiple kinds of patients, there are breeds to keep mentally challenged kids having a good company.
Labrador Retriever
Haole is an excellent example of this smart, people-oriented, and gentle breeds.
Having a lab as an emotional support dog is a great way to keep an autistic child company. The breed can experience acute separation anxiety, which is the best suit for those who don’t enjoy outings.
On the other side, labs have enough energy to get the patients occupied. Trained labs can teach Down kids how to enjoy life uniquely.
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Labrador Retriever
Poodle
Poodle
A poodle is the best small dog breed for special needs child in my opinion.
They are fantastic dogs with full of humor and affection. Their intelligence and loyalty are one of a kind. With a small profile and positive energy wrapped around them, Poodles make great friends for autistic children.
If you happen to opt for a mixed poodle, it’s okay. You can rest assure that the combination can give the best traits for a support dog around kids.
Beagle
Beagle
With a wagging tail and smiling expression, beagles make a perfect family breed. But what about the kids?
Beagles love their little owners, especially the ones need their help. These dogs are an all-around blast to play with and sometimes can be exceedingly friendly.
The only thing to aware is that Beagles are vocal canines with their barking may intricate kids. Getting a Beagle to train is also a challenge as they don’t care much about your bidding except for that attractive scent on the grass.
Newfoundland
Newfoundland
The gigantic floof may look scary, but in fact, Newfoundland dogs own a big heart for children.
Newfies are gentle andallergic to dog hair. They can easily build a bond with the sick child. However, a side note is that this breed drools and sheds a bunch. It is their coat that will fluff your clothes and sofa.
So, when adopting a Newfoundland help dog for your special need child, consider if the kid is allergic to dog hair.
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Rottweiler
Rotties can weigh up to 80 pounds with a sturdy build like linebackers. These dogs are assertive and show courage in many situations. That makes them an excellent protective dog for the kids.
This breed may become aggressive towards strangers but to their owners, they show the other face of a loyal, adorable, and helpful pup that will do anything beyond your expectation.
Autistic kids will love Rotties a lot as they take these little ones on the field and make them enjoy their life much better.
Rottweiler
Bernese Mountain Dog
Bernese Mountain Dog
Bernese Mountain Dog with their gentle temperament and intelligence make them great dogs for youngsters that need help.
Looking at their hilarious smiling appearance would be a blessing for the whole day. These dogs are easy to train and pleasing to people they love. Having a Bernese pup with your disabled kid, you can leave the couple space to embrace life and improve the mental health of your child.
Final thoughts
There are many reasons for a healthy person to share life with a dog. But for a little kid with a disability, a help dog brings beyond the assistance they offer.
I think it’s not just a reason to have a dog, but it’s a need to have such a pure companionship. When a disabled kid can share his/her disability pain to a living creature, it opens more door for them to reach a much quality life. That means they don’t live a clueless life, even can seek for a purpose to exist.
And that’s the magic people always wish to see.
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