How a Dog Lit Up a Little Boy's Life

This story is about a child from my local area. It touched my heart but it comes to no surprise to me of the effect that pets can have on enhancing our well -being. This is a true love story between a little boy and his dog.

Reprinted from Healthy Living Magazine, Winter 2009, with permission from Altoona Regional Health System, Altoona, Pa.

Visit the Fulton home in Altoona, Pa. and you will meet Justin, a 5-year-old autistic boy who shares an amazing bond with his pet dog, Dale. Their connection is made even more special
when you hear the story of how Dale, a beagle/spaniel mix, transformed Justin’s life.

When he was first diagnosed three years ago, Justin rarely communicated with his family. In addition to trying other treatment methods,a psychologist suggested the family get a pet dog as a friend for Justin.

“Among other things, training Dale helps Justin learn patience,” his mother, Dawn, said. “This dog has gotten Justin on his feet and out of his shell. Dale has truly made all the difference
in Justin’s life.”

Today, Justin attends kindergarten with no family-based or therapeutic staff support.“If it weren’t for Dale, Justin wouldn’t be the child he is today,” Dawn said. “We used to hear very little from Justin, and now he talks and talks and
talks! He’s made incredible progress, and we couldn’t
be more pleased.”

Pawsitively yours,
Audie
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