The Remarkable True Story Of An Autistic Boy And The Dog That Unlocked His World

A Friend Like Henry: The Remarkable True Story of an Autistic Boy and the Dog That Unlocked His World

by Nuala Gardner

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	2674 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
X-Ray	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	277 pages

FREE

Owen was diagnosed with autism at the age of two. He struggled with social interactions, communication, and sensory sensitivities. He often retreated into his own world, avoiding eye contact and refusing to speak.

Owen's parents were desperate to help their son. They tried everything they could think of, but nothing seemed to work. Then, they heard about therapy dogs.

Therapy dogs are specially trained to provide comfort and support to people with disabilities. They can help with a variety of tasks, such as reducing anxiety, improving social skills, and promoting communication.

Owen's parents decided to give therapy dogs a try. They contacted a local organization that trained therapy dogs and arranged for Owen to meet a few dogs.

Owen was immediately drawn to a golden retriever named Finn. Finn was gentle, patient, and loving. He seemed to understand Owen in a way that no one else did.

Owen and Finn quickly became best friends. They spent hours playing together, going for walks, and just cuddling. Finn helped Owen to come out of his shell. He encouraged Owen to talk, to make eye contact, and to interact with other people.

With Finn by his side, Owen began to make progress in his therapy. He started to speak more often, he made friends, and he became more independent.

Finn was not just a therapy dog to Owen. He was a friend, a confidant, and a protector. He gave Owen the love and support he needed to overcome his challenges and thrive.

Owen and Finn's story is a heartwarming reminder of the power of friendship. It shows that even people with the most severe disabilities can find love, companionship, and support.

Here are some tips for parents of children with autism who are considering getting a therapy dog:

• Do your research. There are many different organizations that train therapy dogs. It is important to find an organization that is reputable and that has experience working with children with autism.
• Meet the dogs. Before you make a decision, it is important to meet the dogs that are available for adoption. This will give you a chance to see how your child interacts with the dogs and to choose the best dog for your family.
• Be patient. It takes time for children with autism to bond with a therapy dog. Be patient and give your child time to adjust.
• Be supportive. Therapy dogs can be a great help for children with autism, but they are not a cure-all. It is important to be supportive of your child and to continue to work with them on their therapy.

If you are considering getting a therapy dog for your child with autism, I encourage you to do your research and to talk to other parents who have been through the process. Therapy dogs can make a world of difference in the lives of children with autism.

A Friend Like Henry: The Remarkable True Story of an Autistic Boy and the Dog That Unlocked His World

by Nuala Gardner

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	2674 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
X-Ray	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	277 pages

FREE