The Rolando family of San Jose is hoping a four-legged friend will help their 7-year-old autistic son, Armen, if they can raise enough money to pay for one of these specially trained dogs.
It’s a new method parents of autistic children are trying and they’re able to do so, thanks in part, to a small non-profit organization based in Oceanside.
“Good Dog Autism Companions” trains Labradors to deal specifically with the hardships of autism. A representative from the organization says these dogs are trained to help keep the child distracted from negative behaviors, such as running away, which Armen is known to do.
Sharice and Luis Rolando say they’ve exhausted all the typical options to help their son so they’re excited to try “Good Dog.”
But, the price tag for one of these service dogs is $10,000.
On Saturday night, the Rolando’s held a fundraiser in Los Gatos.
If you’d like to contribute to their cause, log onto gooddogautismcompanions.org. Or call 858-245-0032 or email gooddogautism@gmail.com.
