This is Gavin. He is a 12-year-old living with moderate-severe autism spectrum disorder, anxiety, and mixed receptive and expressive language disorder. Gavin was diagnosed when he was just 3 years old.

Gavin has limited verbal communication, behavioral challenges, and extreme sensory needs. We have tried various therapies and interventions, but Gavin still struggles in his daily life.

Gavin likes lots of deep pressure hugs and kisses, so I (Gavin’s mom) spend most of the day helping meet his sensory needs so that he can keep his body calm and safe. Things like going to the store, the doctor, the dentist, the park, even just a car ride can be extremely challenging for us, and most times impossible because of the anxiety Gavin has going out into the community. Because of the autism, Gavin has a huge lack of safety awareness. There have been times where he has wandered.

In the last couple years, Gavin has had the change to work with a dog that visits his school every month. The teachers and staff all tell me how Gavin gets so excited to play with the dog and how comfortable he has gotten with the dog.

I believe that a service dog would hugely help Gavin gain more independence, decrease anxiety, and give me a little break by providing Gavin with sensory input. Another issue Gavin has is trouble with sleeping. He wants to constantly get up and come into my bed at night because he is craving that warmth and sensory input of being cuddles. We tried weighted blankets and sensory sheets, but nothing worked.

I believe that a dog would be able to take my place in so many ways and help Gavin achieve the best quality of life. Please help Gavin achieve his best life with your donation. Thank you!

You can also mail a check or money order to:

W.A.G.S. 4 Kids

112 East Center Street

Berea, OH 44017

Please make a memo that your donation is for Gavin