Ty is 8 years old with an extremely rare syndrome, Myhre Syndrome . There are less than 100 kids in the entire world diagnosed with this syndrome. As a result of the illness, Ty has autism, short stature, heart and kidney issues, hearing impairment, speech and language delays, and is developmentally delayed. Ty is a very loving, happy child but is looking for a life-long friend. We are raising money to match Ty with his soon to be autism service dog “Splash” to accompany him wherever he goes, but also to keep him safe.   Ty's friends and family want to help ease the financial responsibilities that it will cost to bring Splash home. A trainer will accompany Splash for the first couple days and help transition Splash into his forever home with his companion Ty. The donations will pay for delivery fee (travel expenses, lodging, and meals for the training team), and supplies for Splash. 

Splash will accompany Ty to decrease anxiety during medical or dental visits, school activities, shopping, and travel. The dog is trained to recognize and gently interrupt self-harming behaviors or help de-escalate an emotional meltdown.  For instance, the assistance dog might respond to signs of anxiety or agitation with a calming action such as leaning against Ty or gently laying across his lap.

Our hope is the autism service dog, Splash, will be a life-changing partner, helping Ty gain confidence and independence, and become a positive contributing member to society.

If you would like to read more about how Autism Service Dogs help improve the lives of  those affected with autism, check out the following webpage  . 

These pictures and video show Ty meeting his service dog for the first time!