Dog survives attack, helps autistic boy tackle tough situations
The Autism News | English
A dog named Fonzie is helping make the life of a seven year old autistic boy much easier. Since Ryan from Racine was introduced to Fonzie, his mom says he’s been calmer and more in touch with his emotions, but just getting Ryan set up with Fonzie the service dog was a challenge, after Fonzie and two other dogs were attacked in their training pen. Fonzie was the only survivor of the attacks, and Vicki Pagel, who trains the service dogs, nearly gave up. Now,
Fonzie helps guide Ryan through difficult situations – like grocery shopping with his mom.
Michelle Mills is Ryan’s mom, and she says she never really knows what each day will bring, and what kind of mood Ryan will be in when he gets off the bus from school. She says because of his autism, Ryan has difficultly getting through certain every-day situations, like going to the grocery store.
“The grocery store is probably one of the worst for me, to the point where we try not to take him if we don’t have to,” Mills said.
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