A Service Dog for Anna

Meet Anna.

Anna was born with mild-to-severe hearing loss that has progressed to near-profound deafness in both ears. When Anna was two years old, she was diagnosed with autism (level 3/severe). You will know her by her smiling face and how she laughs, as if she has heard a joke but hasn’t let us in on it! However, despite her sunny disposition, Anna struggles at times. Due to the overlap of autism and deafness, Anna prefers not to wear her hearing aids and, as a result, is less aware of environmental sounds. She can also have trouble self-regulating, especially when she is unwell and has low frustration tolerance. We are always looking for ways to help Anna with social communication, self-regulation, and safety awareness so we can continue seeing her smile and enjoy her life despite her challenges.

Recently, we discovered Little Angels Service Dogs, which trains service dogs to help children like Anna to adapt to everyday life, provide protection, and help develop confidence in social settings. Little Angels Service Dogs has approved Anna to receive one of these exceptional dogs. Their dogs are typically Labradors and Golden Retrievers who have been bred for this work. They are trained in foster homes from the moment they are weaned. Once the dogs are mature enough, they are brought back to the dog training facility for specialized training to assist the individual with whom they will be placed.

In Anna’s case, the dog will be trained to perform several functions that will help her. For example, if Anna attempts to wander away or bolt into the street, the dog will circle her and lie down, making it impossible for her to get away. Although, as her parents, it will always be our responsibility to keep Anna safe, the assistance of a service dog would provide an extra level of security and peace of mind. Additionally, by sitting on her lap and being at her side, the dog will give deep pressure (like a firm hug), a proven therapy to help her self-regulate and feel safe. Importantly, the service dog will also provide Anna with unconditional love when she needs a friend.

It would be a wonderful gift for Anna and children like her to receive the benefits of a service dog. Little Angels Service is an international (ADI) accredited organization and a 501c3 organization which means they rely 100% on donations from people like you.

Please consider making a donation to Little Angels Service Dogs today.

We cannot thank you enough for your help!