Autism Support Dog for Jacob

Firstly, thanks so much for visiting our Just Giving page.

Our 7 year old son Jacob, is severely non-verbal autistic and we are currently in the process of trying to purchase a Supporting Paws Assistance Dog as a companion for him.

Supporting Paws are highly trained assistance dogs which help to encourage and allow children to fully integrate into the community whilst also providing sensory and safety interventions which help the child to regulate behaviour and anxieties.

Jacob is an exceptionally loving and happy child who has bags of energy, but little social and communication skills. As he is unable to communicate his thoughts and feelings to those that he trusts the most, his anxieties are expressed through his behaviour which can be unexpected and challenging, making outings into the community difficult for us.

We contacted Supporting Paws as we have seen first hand what a working dog can do to support a vulnerable child like Jacob.

Because of his problems with social interaction, Jacob is unable to play with his peers and does not have any friends of his own. As a dog does not discriminate, plays simple games and has the stamina and desire to keep up with Jacob, they provide the perfect playmate, companion and ultimately friend for him.

If we are able to raise enough funds to purchase an assistance dog for Jacob, his experience of the world and our lives as a family would change dramatically. By having a constant companion that can provide the reassurance he so desperately needs to reduce his anxiety and thrive in the community, we really feel that everyone would benefit from everything our wonderful little boy has to offer.

Thank you so much for taking the time to read this.

Geoff and Nicki

7.5% of all donations to Tree of Hope in relation to this appeal will be allocated to the general charitable purposes of Tree of Hope to cover our core operating costs.

If we raise insufficient funds, or surplus funds, then the funds will be used, if appropriate, to fund support for our child's needs in accordance with Tree of Hope's charitable objectives, then any funds that cannot be used will be transferred to be used for the general charitable purposes of Tree of Hope.

If you have any questions at all please do not hesitate to call the family support team on 01892 535525. for taking the time to visit my JustGiving page.

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