
Training for animal support BOLT for Jayden, daily needs.
Donation protected
04-23-2025 Update Jist posted a new picture
Jayden has l brought home his new Forever BF last week. He will require a lot of training, throughout the next couple years. Please continue to share. It’s gonna take a village of friends to help Jaydens and his BF to be trained for Jayden daily life and needs. Thank you.
Hi everyone,
Jayden has brought into our lives four years ago and we couldn’t be any more blessed. Now he’s almost 8 years old it’s time to get him a best friend. We’re reaching out to ask for your help in giving our amazing grandson/son Jayden the support he truly needs. Jayden is a bright, loving boy with autism, and we are currently raising funds to get him a specially trained Dutch Shepherd service dog.
This dog won’t just be a companion—he will be a life-changing part of Jayden’s world.
Autism can make everyday life incredibly overwhelming. Jayden often struggles with anxiety, sensory overload, sudden meltdowns, and difficulty feeling safe in unfamiliar environments. He also has challenges with communication and emotional regulation, which can make it hard for him to connect with others and feel calm in his own body.
A professionally trained service dog can help in so many meaningful ways:
Sensory Support: During meltdowns or high-stress moments, the dog can provide deep pressure therapy to help calm Jayden’s nervous system.
Safety and Tracking: For children who tend to wander or elope, like Jayden sometimes does, the dog is trained to track and keep him safe.
Emotional Stability: The dog offers consistent, non-judgmental companionship, helping Jayden regulate his emotions and reduce anxiety and fear in overwhelming situations.
Structure and Independence: Service dogs offer predictable routines and a sense of responsibility, both of which help children with autism build confidence and life skills.
Social Connection: The presence of a dog can also open doors for social interactions that might otherwise be difficult for Jayden, making it easier for him to connect with peers and his community.
We specifically chose a Dutch Shepherd because they’re known for their intelligence, loyalty, and strong work ethic. These dogs are calm, focused, and responsive—ideal traits for helping a child with autism thrive. They are naturally attuned to human emotions and capable of learning advanced tasks to support unique challenges.
The cost of training and acquiring such a highly specialized service dog is significant, but the positive impact it will have on Jayden’s life is immeasurable. This dog will be more than a helper—it will be a source of comfort, protection, and empowerment for our son.
Please consider donating or sharing our story. Every bit of support brings us one step closer to giving Jayden the tools he needs to feel safe, connected, and confident in the world around him.
With gratitude,
Ashley, Nana and Jayden
Organizer and beneficiary
Jennifer Trotter
Organizer
Jacksonville, FL
Ashley Underhill
Beneficiary