Service Dog for Alayna

My daughter, Alayna, was born in 2007 with Spina Bifida.  She has many appointments with specialists and it was mentioned that maybe a service dog could be benficial to her as she grows.  We were told that a service dog could assist with many tasks that she currently needs help with from us, her family.  Independence is very important to us as she is growing into a beautiful young lady.  Due to the Spina Bifida Alayna is unable to walk independently. She uses a walker, wheelchair and quad canes to get around.  She also has right sided hemiparesis which gives her limited mobility. In the past we were able to carry her, but as she is growing this is becoming increasingly difficult. A service dog could assist with retrieving items, opening doors, getting dressed and possible even walking short distances.  Alayna recently has been bothered by the reactions of others in the public when walking with her walker or other type of assistance.  She hopes that a service dog would also help her gain more self confidence.  I have been in contact with a couple possible companies and completing all necessary steps to make this dream of hers come true. I also have been in touch with breeders and trainers.  Alayna is very determined and decided to start selling potholders/coasters that she makes (which is also a great therapy for her hand) which has already proved to be profitable but we still have a long way to go.  Many have asked where they can donate, so I decided to start this page.  Thank you for any and all help, sharing, good wishes, and prayers that you have done.

-Monica (Mom)