Training a service dog to meet our child’s requirements can be very costly. On average it costs between $40,000-60,000 to raise, train, and place a service dog at 4 Paws for Ability. While 4 Paws for Ability fundraises to help cover a significant portion of this cost, families are tasked with raising $20,000 of that amount or $23,000 if receiving a poodle, doodle or papillon. We hope that we can receive assistance from our beloved family and friends to help make our service dog dream a reality.
My name is Tom and I'm 5 years old. According to my parents, I have the most beautiful smile (but they are bias) and I'm the kindest and cheerful little boy in the world. I was diagnosed as a level 2 in the autism spectrum disorder a few years ago. I live with my little sister Ivy (who is 3 years old and also in the spectrum), my mom and my dad.
My father has been working for an american company for 14 years now and he was offerred a position in the Dayton, Ohio area back in 2022. We have then decided to move from the hot sands of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil to Kettering, Ohio in that summer. I don't mind the cold here so much, but I'm afraid my parents can't say the same. lol We love America and are very proud to call it our home.
In summary, I have some difficulties to communicate (speech delay) and struggle to socialize with peers. Also, I sometimes have emotional meltdowns that feel almost involuntary. We were hoping that a service dog could help me to build confidence and thrive beyong my limitations.
We'd like to ask for your help if you can and would very much appreciate it!