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ASAWAY Puppy Program Q & A Dogs for Children with Down Syndrome, Autism and Speech Delays

Q. How do you select the puppies for the program?

A. Our son’s Aussie is the dam of the program puppies. For our son with Down Syndrome and the rest of our family, she is the perfect fit. Our son handles each of the puppies every day. By observing the puppies with our son, we hand pick the puppies specifically suited for children with special needs.

Q. Are the puppies AKC registered?

A. No. The mother’s parents are a pair of Aussies with no papers. We selected her solely on the basis of temperament and sensitivity. She has a keen sense for our son’s needs and is eager to please. Of course, our son loves her to pieces, and that helps. One of our Aussies self-appointed duties in life is to help our son unwind after his school day. She is there to greet him as soon as he gets home. It is not uncommon for him to spend 30 minutes just loving his dog at the end of his day.

Q. Are the puppies raised in a kennel?

A. No. The puppies are handled frequently throughout the day and are thoroughly ready to join a new family with a special needs child when they leave here.

Q. Do the puppies have special environmental needs?

A. All dogs need plenty of exercise and mental stimulation, and these are no exception. These puppies can thrive in any climate. Our own Aussie grows a heavy winter coat, sheds moisture easily and has no problem whatsoever with winter or summer weather.

Q. Which homes qualify for the ASAWAY Puppy Program?

A. Only dog-friendly homes with a child with special needs, such as Autism, Down Syndrome or significant speech or hearing delays qualify.

Q. Do you train the puppies?

A. Yes and no. Our son handles each puppy every day. You will receive a special-needs-child-friendly puppy that will be easy to incorporate into your own dog-friendly home.

Q.  How do I get more information or place my child on a waiting list for one of these puppies?

A.   Click here for more information or to contact us about placing your child on the waiting list.

 Posted on: Sunday, May 31, 2009 at 1:26 pm
 ASAWAY Puppy Program, companion dogs, service dogs down syndrome, special needs school.
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