The Cat is an amazing little girl with Asperger's. She has
really had a rough go of it lately. She had some bad reactions to meds, and
some bad meltdowns. Three days before Christmas I had to make the decision to
have the Cat hospitalized. Her behaviors were out of control and try as I
might, I just could not keep her safe at home. It broke all of our hearts to
make that choice. We were concerned that we may have to send the Cat out of
state for long term residential treatment. However with a med wash and some
changes at home things are looking up. We will be bringing the Cat home soon.
We are not out of the woods yet. Asperger’s isn’t something
that will just go away. But there are ways to make it easier for her. We have
made the changes that we can. We now have a visual schedule app for her daily
routines. We have slimmed down our expectations, and made it easier for her to
keep her environment clean and organized.
We have done what we can at home. But going out in the real
world is something we can’t control. Going grocery shopping causes the Cat a
lot of anxiety, riding in the car is hard on her ears. School is challenging,
but manageable with lots of supports. There is something that can be done to
help the Cat navigate these places.
A service dog would help her be able to better navigate her
world. The dog will help her navigate social settings, help soothe anxiety, and
be a constant companion. There is a safety aspect as well. The dog would be
trained to track the Cat as she is a known runner. A service dog would be able
to accompany the Cat wherever she goes, school, the store, airplanes, doctor
appointments. The Cat would gain a level of independence that she will not have
otherwise.
Right now because of her running and SIBs the Cat cannot be
left alone, she needs constant supervision. With a service dog, the safety
risks are minimal. The dog will be able to help calm the Cat when she is
getting agitated, to provide deep pressure and sensory input, to lead the Cat
away from environments that are over-stimulating. This dog will change her
life.
We have found a wonderful puppy that will be trained to meet
all of the Cat's needs, and a wonderful training organization that is free of
charge. We are just looking for some help with the upfront costs. Please
whatever you can donate will be so greatly appreciated, and will make a true
difference in the life of this sweet girl.
