Assistance Dog for Isaac

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Meet Isaac, he is 7 years old and attends school at Montessori at Arataki Primary school in Mount Maunganui, which he loves very much. He also enjoys Riding for disabled and is a natural little cowboy. He is very social, fun, cheeky, affectionate and without a doubt one of the happiest little boys on Earth.

Sadly, Isaac suffered a brain injury due to lack of oxygen during his birth and is diagnosed with Cerebral Palsy and Global Developmental Delay.

Unlike other children of his age he is non-verbal, however he understands some words (this is improving) and he communicates with babbles and gestures. Isaac shows little awareness of personal safety nor any dangers that surround him. He requires 24hr supervision.

Although Isaac is happy and bright, he thrives on routine and familiar companions and surroundings to get through his day, new outings or experiences can quickly become overwhelming and he can become anxious.

Isaac continues to progress in all areas slowly, however as a family we realise he will never be able to live independently.

Isaac is particularly improving in his physical abilities, he currently uses a wheelchair and a walking frame to get around. When he is at home, he is very quick to move about the house using furniture and the walls, constantly ensuring his safety takes up most of our day. He also suffers from sleep disturbances and needs reassurance during the night, every night. He is also a little ninja and is quick to get out of bed at night when he wakes trying to find someone for comfort.

It has been a very challenging yet rewarding journey thus far with Isaac, what makes us smile is that he continues to achieve things that we were told would never be possible - he is our superhero!!

Now, through the generosity of Assistance Dogs New Zealand (ADNZ), Isaac has been given another opportunity to live as happy and fulfilled a life as possible. Not only will an Assistance Dog be Isaac's very own constant unwavering companion and best friend, we hope his Dog when fully trained will give him:

* the confidence and motivation to engage in activities outside of his comfort zones, the Dog will be his calm companion.

*Physical assistance. We hope the Dog will assist Isaac in the use of his wheelchair if he gets stuck, also to help him get in and out of his chair and we also hope Isaac will learn to walk unaided with his companion walking slowly by his side.

*Increased safety levels. As Isaac needs constant supervision during the day and night, we hope the Dog will alert us if Isaac is in danger. We also hope the Dog may give Isaac the comfort he needs at night to enjoy a more restful night's sleep for us all.

*a positive point of interaction with strangers. The focus shifts from an 'different' child in a wheelchair to seeing a beautiful dog obviously working to help a child with different abilities.

We are so grateful that ADNZ exists to provide these amazing dogs to special kids like Isaac. We aim to raise $20,000 but every dollar more helps keep this great organisation running for others too.

Please make a donation by selecting the "Donate Now' button to our cause today and help us achieve a dream to enable Isaac access to, and greater opportunities in the wider community.

If you live in New Zealand your donation is tax deductible and a receipt will be issued.

We are truly grateful for any support you give us.

Isaac and his entire support crew!