Normal children can behave in ways that their parents may find very hard to manage. But this difficult behavior in children with autism is another story. A child with autism faces a lot of challenges with communication and social interaction. At present, much progress has already been made in understanding this developmental disorder. People have become more aware of the disorder as well as the problems that accompany having a child with autism.
Autism service dogs play a big part in helping a person with autism perform daily activities similar to anyone else. Dogs have something in them, which always helps make any situation better.
Shanna Nienhaus was living abroad with her family in Japan when they learned that her 4-year-old son, Kai, had autism. His condition became worse when he turned five. It was when he started resisting any form of physical touch. One of the biggest problems among parents dealing with autism is the “touch” problem. Autistic children hate being hugged or touched.
Kai had a lot of trouble with social relationships and exhibited undesirable behaviors except when dealing with animals.
In 2016, the Nienhaus family moved back to the United States. They were ready to find a way to help Kai deal with his condition. They decided to reach out to an organization called “4 Paws For Ability”. They are based in Ohio and are experts in pairing service dogs with children and veterans with disabilities.
They waited long until the day came for Kai to meet Tornado, the service dog fully trained for the boy. Shanna was so worried in the beginning. Then she began to see that she didn’t have to worry at all. Her months of researching and fundraising have finally paid off.
Kai and Tornado became friends instantly! The child who once hated being hugged and touched, snuggled freely with his new service dog. The day Kai met Tornado was the day that Shanna witnessed him make a social connection outside of their family. She became full of hope. Tornado was trained, especially for Kai, and is supposed to help bring out the best in him.
The family soon also adopted one of the organization’s dogs who failed therapy training. Kai is now happily living in a house full of pets.
Watch the emotional moment when Kai met his service dog in the video below.
Source: USA Today via Youtube