FOUR-LEGGED help!

HOW ASSISTANCE DOGS CAN CHANGE LIVES

They’re man’s best friend – and woman’s too. Dogs make wonderful pets, but they can also make life a whole lot better for those facing a range of challenges.

Their use as guide dogs for the visually impaired is well known, but canines can also help people with other conditions. Known as assistance dogs, they are specially trained to help with daily living, mobility and companionship for those with physical and neurological disabilities, as well as conditions such as:

• Autism and Aspergers

• Down’s syndrome

• Cerebral palsy

• Brain injury

• Developmental impairment

• Diabetes