Sound-sensitive Boy Needs Autism Service Dog
Hi. My name is Zachary Findall. I am a warm-hearted typical active 6-year-old boy who enjoys swimming, drawing, and playing trains with my two little brothers. The difference between my peers and myself is that I am extremely sensitive to loud sounds, sights, and touch.
If I’m out in public when one of these meltdowns occurs, I feel the need to run away, which scares my family. Sometimes I lash out when I’m frustrated and unable to find the words to express my feelings. Most of the time I have trouble sleeping alone and need to feel the safety and comfort of my mom or dad.
I am extremely curious which is why we have extra locks on the doors so that I can’t wander off and explore alone. I realize I am different in many ways but my mom reminds me that it’s okay because everyone’s different. My parents are so proud of me and the progress that I have made; I just need some extra help. An autism service dog will give us that help adding support, security, and unconditional friendship, which will help me on so many levels.
4 Paws for Ability have approved my application to receive an autism service dog. 4 Paws for Ability is a non-profit (501c3) organization taking the ‘dis’ out of disability by providing trained service dogs with people in need. My service dog will be trained in behavior modification, tethering, and tracking which will help me feel calm and connected, while helping my family feel more secure.
My Daddy is in the Navy and out to sea a lot so having a companion to keep me safe helps him to sleep better when away from us. 4 Paws for Ability will train a service dog to fit my needs and the needs of my family. My dog will also help to expand my social and emotional skills while giving me responsibility and independence.
With your help, I can receive a service dog within 9-12 months after our fundraising is complete, unlike other agencies that would put us on a 5-year waiting list. 4 Paws for Ability asks us to work with them in the fundraising process as a volunteer to fundraise the cost of training one dog.
If you donate in honor of Zachary Findall you’ll not only be supporting a wonderful organization but your tax-deductible donation will help us qualify to receive a service dog for Zachary. Make your checks payable to 4 Paws for Ability and please be sure to reference “In honor of Zachary Findall” in the memo portion of the check or in the special instructions box online at www.4pawsforability.org. My family and I are so grateful for your support.
Note: I highly endorse 4 Paws for Ability as a source for extremely well-trained service dogs. The organization is sound and its goals exceptional. Judy Vorfeld.