Dec 20, 2024
The Magic of a Furry Friend: How Casper transformed our bedtime struggles
From the moment Jon entered the world, bedtime was a battle. What should have been a peaceful end to the day often stretched into a gruelling four-hour ordeal, filled with tears and frustration. As parents, we felt the weight of exhaustion bearing down on us, our hopes for restful nights slipping further away with each passing day. We worried about Jon’s sleep—and ours—wondering if we’d ever find a solution to this seemingly insurmountable challenge.
Then came Casper, an adorable bundle of joy. When he came to us, Jon was instantly drawn to his playful spirit and warm, furry embrace. It was as if Casper knew that he had a special role to play in our family. The bond they formed was immediate and heartwarming; it felt like Casper had come into our lives at the perfect moment, as if he was meant to help us through this difficult phase.
On one of those nights, as we settled Jon into bed, we decided to let Casper join us. I’ll never forget the look on Jon’s face when he saw Casper snuggle up next to him. It was magical. For the first time, bedtime felt different. As Casper curled up at the foot of Jon’s bed, a sense of calm filled the room. With Casper there, Jon seemed to feel more secure, as if he had a guardian by his side.
The hours that followed were a revelation. Instead of tossing and turning, Jon drifted off peacefully, and when he did wake up during the night, Casper was right there. The gentle nudge of a furry friend was all it took to settle him back down, often without a peep. The frantic bedtime struggles faded into a distant memory, replaced by a soothing routine that benefited everyone in the family.
Casper transformed our nights from chaotic to serene. Where once we would find ourselves pacing the halls, trying to soothe Jon back to sleep, we now enjoyed moments of quiet together. Our family dynamic shifted; we were happier, less stressed, and could finally bond over shared laughter instead of frustration.
With Casper’s help, Jon learned to embrace bedtime as a time for comfort and companionship rather than anxiety. Our hearts swelled with gratitude as we finally began to experience those blissful nights of uninterrupted sleep that we had longed for.
Looking back, it’s hard to believe how far we’ve come. The simple presence of a furry friend changed everything for us. Jon and Casper became inseparable, and the love they share is evident in every cuddle and every moment spent together.
As a parent, it fills my heart with joy to see my child finally at peace during those quiet hours. Casper is not just a service dog; he’s a member of our family who brought healing during a time of struggle. His gentle spirit has reminded us of the power of love and companionship, teaching us that sometimes, the best solutions come in the most unexpected forms.
In a world that often feels overwhelming, it’s the little things that can make the biggest difference. For us, it was a furry friend who turned our bedtime battles into cherished moments. If you’re facing similar struggles, consider how a service dog might bring comfort and joy to your family. Sometimes, love takes the shape of a wagging tail and a warm cuddle, and it can change everything.
Nov 29, 2024
Lola’s story:
With Polly by my side, life feels more manageable. Together, we reshape my daily challenges into opportunities for connection and support, turning former obstacles into possibilities.
Our partnership gives me strength and confidence, as Polly’s presence provides comfort and reassurance. Each day feels brighter, and every challenge becomes a shared triumph.
Before Polly, navigating the world felt overwhelming. Since being partnered with her, everything has changed for the better. She provides not just practical assistance but also a profound sense of security, confidence, and independence that I never thought possible. She helps me manage anxiety, keeps me grounded in difficult situations, and is a constant, reassuring companion—making the world feel more accessible and full of possibility.
That doesn’t mean challenges have disappeared. But now, even when things feel overwhelming, I’m never alone. If we struggle to overcome something, Polly is always there to comfort me, reminding me that it’s okay not to succeed every time and that I will always have her support.
The impact she has had on my well-being is beyond words—I truly can’t imagine life without her.
None of this would have been possible without Dogs for Autism. Their dedication, expertise, and support have been truly life-changing, not just for me but for so many autistic individuals who rely on their assistance dogs. They give people like me the chance to experience freedom, confidence, and comfort in ways that would otherwise feel out of reach.
Supporting Dogs for Autism means giving others the same incredible gift I’ve been given—an assistance dog who transforms lives. Polly isn’t just a dog; she’s my lifeline, my anchor, and my key to a more independent future. I am forever grateful.
Sep 11, 2024
Ever since their first meeting back in April on ITV’s This Morning, it was obvious that there was a lovely friendship in the making. So when Sir Ian suffered a serious accident during a performance of Player Kings on the West End in June… what did the Dr order?… Puppy Love of course!
We are so proud that Buddy was able to spend a few days with Sir Ian, and hope he was a real tonic in helping him recuperate. Following Buddy’s stay, Sir Ian wrote these words:
“Buddy and I met on the sofa of the TV morning show, when he was happy to sit alongside me as I talked about playing Falstaff onstage. This was not long before I slipped, slid and fell from the stage, injuring wrist and neck but not much else, thanks to the fat suit I was acting in.
Hilary, Buddy’s mentor and guardian, contacted me. I had told her how much I’ve enjoyed living with dogs throughout my life, though currently I am single, as it were. So she had an idea that Buddy might be the perfect companion to be with me as I recovered at home. And so it proved. Hilary set up his crate in my bedroom where he quietly slept within sight and sound of me. During the day, he rarely left my side.
But he’s a puppy, full of energy, and I found even the short walks in our nearby park could be a strain when he wanted to pull on his lead to play with another dog, eager for canine company. I was nervous that he might inadvertently wrench my wrist but goodness me, what a charmer he is, in looks and personality, with that love for food and treats which I was happy to believe was evidence that he also loved me a little bit.
I shall watch his progress with great interest, in the certainty that Hilary will train him up to be the perfect companion for someone who really needs his support to cope.”
This is their first meeting:
This is their reunion:
If you would like to see more videos about Dogs for Autism, please head on over to our Youtube channel.
YouTube channel
Sep 9, 2024
Join us at the BVA on Thursday, 19th September, to explore volunteering opportunities with Dogs for Autism! 🐶
We’re on the lookout for passionate puppy parents and event volunteers to help support our mission. We will be there from 11am until 2pm and from 12pm to 1pm, our amazing volunteers and staff will be demonstrating a small class with our adorable puppies in training. Come meet the pups, chat with our volunteers, and learn how you can make a life changing difference. We can’t wait to see you there! 🐕❤️
Aug 24, 2024
Peter and Coco
“Coco’s made a massive difference to our lives. She’s allowed us to be a family again.”
For families like Peter’s, a Dog for Autism can be life-changing. When we first met Peter, he wouldn’t make eye contact or talk to us. He had issues walking, would bang his head on the ground when he became frustrated and he struggled with speech. His family were isolated and their life was restricted, impacting not only his parents but his little brother.We chose Coco, a cavapoo, for Peter. Her size meant we could train her to jump up on Peter’s lap when she feels him becoming emotionally dysregulated.
A child that could not make eye contact with people would now talk to anyone about Coco. When his emotions became too much to handle, Coco would jump onto his lap to calm him down. Suddenly a child who struggled with day-to-day life became calmer and more confident.
We put a lot of work into integrating Coco into Peter’s school life, with his trainer working in school with them for many months.
“Before, Peter would sit at the back of class and not interact. And, he would have a meltdown over something simple, when he would be inconsolable. But now he’s completely different. He has achieved more this year than the last 7 years in school. Recently he had to give a speech in his English class and Coco was in the classroom with him, so he was able to do the speech with ease. Without Coco he wouldn’t have been able to do it. When we went to parents’ evening every teacher commented on the difference in Peter.”
What is really incredible – and shows the amazing journey Peter and his dog have taken – is that he appeared recently, live on national television, talking about Coco and how she helps him! This wouldn’t have happened without Coco – and Coco wouldn’t have happened without funding from people like you.
You can watch their interview here.
