We made a documentary film called Talent Hounds about the evolving roles and talents of dogs. One of the most moving stories in the film is about a little boy Max and his family. Max is 6 and was diagnosed with autism several years ago. His family recently got a National Service Dog called Chester, a beautiful gentle, golden lab. You would not believe the difference Chester has made in their lives. Max can now go for walks with his Mother more safely as he does not bolt, he seems calmer and has stopped lashing out, and he sleeps through the night with Chester (or at least his mother has been able to for the first time in years which is a very good thing). The family call Chester their "healing balm".
Inspired by working on the film, another family we know just got a young dog. Their son with Asperger's seems to be responding really well.
Toronto, Canada
