Currently, more than 3.5 million Americans live with an autism spectrum disorder. It is the fastest growing developmental disability in the United States, with a dramatic increase in diagnoses from 2000 (1 in 150) to today (1 in 59.) I ask that you take the time to read the story below and educate yourself and those around you on the importance of understanding autism and the great impact BluePath Service Dogs has had on families near and far.
BluePath Service Dogs provides autism service dogs, offering safety, companionship and opportunities of independence for families with children on the autism spectrum. Many children with autism exhibit bolting tendencies, which can make trips outside the home a frightening proposition. An autism service dog works alongside parents or caregivers to keep a child safe. The dog is connected to the child via a specially designed tether system, and the dog is trained to “anchor” in response to a child bolting. They also provide children with much needed companionship, increased social acknowledgment from peers, opportunities for independence and increased levels of confidence.
Volunteer puppy raisers provide a wonderful loving home, time, and continuing care until they are approximately 18 months old. These volunteers who task themselves with raising the dogs complete basic training and socialize these dogs until they reach their next journey to formal training with a professional instructor.
My dear friend Wendy is a retired Buffalo Police Officer and has volunteered with BluePath for the past 2.5 years. She has inspired me to help raise money for this incredible organization through her endless passion for raising a future service dog, with the ultimate goal of being placed with a child with autism and their family. She has done amazing things with these dogs and for the local community. Now it’s our chance to give back for her service over the years, of which she now continues with BluePath.
I have followed Wendy’s journey with her first puppy Cash, whom she had since he was 8 weeks old. She has socialized Cash with her other fur babies and grandchild, worked with several schools (with children on the autism spectrum as well as those that are not) through the help of social media, and taught these children as well as the adults how to interact with a service dog. These schools are actively waiting for Wendy to come back with her newest BluePath recruit, Mattis.
Wendy has inspired me through her passion and dedication to this great cause to assist with raising funds for the training of her next BluePath puppy. The cost to prepare these incredible dogs is upwards of $40,000, yet thanks to the generosity of donors, BluePath service dogs – and intensive, ongoing follow up support – are free of charge to their placed families. You will be able to follow the progress through pictures and posts on Facebook.
Together, we can make a difference in another family’s life who are impacted by autism. No amount is too little. Not only do I appreciate your love and support, so does a family in need.
XO
Jill Weber
All rights reserved.