A Dog for Jack: Safety, Support, and a Little Peace

Hi, my name is Michelle and I’m fundraising for my son, Jack.

Jack was diagnosed as autistic in 2021, and since then, we’ve been on a journey filled with love, learning, and challenges. We’ve worked closely with behavioral therapists, occupational and speech therapists, and psychologists to support his development and safety.

Recently, it was recommended that Jack receive a specially trained autism service dog—a companion that could dramatically improve his safety, independence, and quality of life.

Jack has a tendency to elope, wander, and bolt, often towards dangerous situations like traffic or water. This has been one of our greatest and most terrifying challenges. A service dog would be trained to intervene when Jack tries to run, acting as a physical anchor to keep him from danger. The dog would also:

• Track Jack if he ever goes missing

• Calm and prevent meltdowns

• Interrupt repetitive unsafe behaviors

• Provide social comfort in overwhelming situations

• Offer companionship and emotional regulation

This service dog would not just be a pet—it would be a life-saving support for Jack, and a life-changing addition for our whole family. Right now, we live on constant high alert, despite locks and safety precautions we are always watching doors, windows, exits, public spaces, and trying to stay one step ahead of Jack’s impulsive behaviours. This dog would give us all—parents and siblings included—a chance to breathe, to feel a little more peace, and to create a safer, more stable home environment for everyone.

The cost of a fully trained autism service dog is $40,000, and unfortunately, this is not covered by insurance or government programs. We are exploring every avenue possible to get him the support he needs, but without community support, we won’t reach our goal. Every dollar raised will go directly toward the cost of the dog, its training, and related expenses. Once we hit our required amount, through grants and gofundme, I will close the fund. We are raising money in multiple ways, through community support, program grants, bottle drives, and offers of service in our community. (Shovelling, raking leaves, yard clean up, dog walking, etc.) We are planning to use Alberta K9. Their website can be found here. https://www.albertak9.ca/

If you’re able to donate, share, or simply send support, we are deeply grateful. Thank you for helping give Jack—and our entire family—the chance to live more safely, more freely, and more fully!

With gratitude,

Justin, Michelle, and the Johnston kids