For the first time we can bring our son into the shops!
We are in some ways a stereotypical Irish family, three kids and live in a small country house on the outskirts of Waterford City. What differentiates us from the rest of the herd, is we have a uniquely fantastic little boy called Charlie, and he has Autism.
Going on family trips to the shop or to destinations that are unplanned, nearly always consist of meltdowns, stress and sometimes even danger as he is a big flight risk. As a family, we needed to find something to help, not only Charlie cope, but make family life more manageable now and into the future.
This is when our research led us to the fantastic charity, My Canine Companion. A charity whose sole purpose is to train dogs to work with people on the spectrum, not only to keep them safe, but to be a companion for that person.
Initially, we began attending dog training classes, to gain understanding in what was required from owners when deciding to take on such a dog, and what impact that would have on our family. Both qualified and training dogs were present, including one of the charities highly professional trainers. As the training session unfolded, it was evident families were required to bring learned skills away and practice with their companion to ensure the best possible outcome for each individual dog. We knew it was going to be tough, but equally, we knew it was exactly what Charlie and our family needed.
We finally got our puppy and began the puppy program. Training with a dog trainer once a month and meet other families with their dogs for socialisation at other times, it definitely can have its ups and downs. it ain't easy, but what you get at the end, is what makes this charity so special.
Our fantastic dog Huck finally completed training in September, of 2020. For the first time, we can bring our son into shops, to the park and for walks along Tramore promenade, none of which could ever have been done before we got Huck. He is a true blessing, not only to our son Charlie, but to our family as a whole and for that, we have only My Canine Companion to thank...
So from the bottom of our hearts, thank you!
Eoin Carroll (Co Waterford)
Donate today and help us to create more moments like these!
