We met both Leo and Zeke in 2020. In some ways you could say that they were both our "COVID babies". Leo was an active, happy nine-year-old who loved swimming, music and animals. Leo and his family had also recently learned that Leo has GRIN2B-Related Neurodevelopmental Disorder, a very rare, genetic condition characterized by low muscle tone, impaired speech, and cognitive functioning as well as feeding problems. While he used some words and phrases, his speech was still just emerging, and he also had a speech device.

Along with the many joys Leo experienced, he still had many challenges. Options for going on family outings were limited, given Leo’s attention deficit and sensory seeking needs, (i.e., he won’t stay seated for long). Consequently, “typical” experiences such as eating at a restaurant required extra planning and, often, additional relatives or friends to help. Leo and his parents dreamed of a service dog that would help Leo with his sensory needs, soothe him when he gets distressed, and filling a huge void in his life and allow him to expand his world.

And then there was Zeke. Placed in December of 2021, "Zeke is an amazing, sweet dog who has added so much to our lives. Zeke adds purpose to our daily routines and gives Leo some responsibility. Leo is also learning how to communicate with him." proclaims mom, Jennifer. "Lisa has been great in responding to any questions or concerns I've had, including a visit with our school." Zeke is now going to school with Leo daily.

The gift the purposeful languaging can give to the practice of speech therapy is just one of the many milestones that we celebrate here at W.A.G.S. 4 Kids, none of which could be possible without our circle of friends and family. You see the value in what these dogs bring to our child's life. You see an opportunity to do something purely good. And you do. And for that - we are truly grateful.

Wishing everyone in the W.A.G.S. 4 Kids family a very Happy Thanksgiving! Please know how incredibly grateful we are to be part of yours!