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.

Dear Friends, Family, and Kind Strangers,

We are reaching out with hope and love to share our story about our amazing daughter, Nova-Luv. At just 2 years old, she has already shown us how brave, unique, and determined she is as she navigates the world with autism. Recently, we also received news of a second, extremely rare diagnosis: Marbach-Schaaf Neurodevelopmental Syndrome, caused by a PRKAR1B gene mutation. This condition is so rare that fewer than 50 children worldwide are known to have it.

This diagnosis adds another layer of complexity to Nova-Luv’s journey. Along with sensory overload, communication struggles, and anxiety, this genetic condition contributes to her developmental delays, behavioral challenges, and neurological differences. Despite these obstacles, she continues to amaze us every day with her spirit, resilience, and bright light.

We believe a service dog could be a life-changing source of comfort, stability, and independence for her.

A specially trained service dog can:

• Provide deep pressure therapy during meltdowns to help her self-regulate.

• Act as a calming presence in overwhelming or unfamiliar environments.

• Offer companionship and support to build her confidence in social situations.

• Alert us to safety risks and help prevent wandering, which is a real concern for us.

Unfortunately, the cost of a highly trained autism service dog is significant, averaging $20,000–$40,000, including training, travel, and follow-up support. This is beyond what we can afford on our own, but we are determined to do everything we can to give Nova-Luv this incredible opportunity.

We humbly ask for your support in helping us reach this goal. Every contribution, no matter the size, brings us closer to bringing this life-changing companion into Nova-Luv’s life. If you’re unable to donate, sharing our story with others would mean the world to us.

Thank you for taking the time to read about our journey. Your kindness and generosity will forever be a part of Nova-Luv’s story, helping her build a brighter and more independent future.

With heartfelt gratitude,

The Walczaks