Being in the hospital can be nerve-racking. Although it is believed to be the safest place in the world, it can still be terrifying for patients, especially for children. It would be so nice to have your furry best friend by your side.
James Isaac, a nine-year-old boy with autism, is lucky to have Mahe, a three-year-old Labrador, as his assistance dog. The pair have become viral after photos of them together in the hospital were posted online. People have been awed by the pooch’s loyalty.
Due to James’ seizures, his mom, Michelle Isaac, brought him to the Wellington Children’s Hospital to determine why it was happening. As the child received anesthesia to prepare for his MRI scan, Mahe jumped on James’ bed and looked at the boy with a concerned face.
Michelle was thankful to the hospital staff for allowing the assistance dog to stay there with James. It indeed helped him calm down. After the MRI scan, Mahe went to the recovery room with James and lay down on the bed, waiting for his best friend to wake up.
James can’t speak, doesn’t like being touched by anyone, and making eye contact. But according to Michelle, Mahe was an exception for him and loved to cuddle with his furry pal. Everywhere James went, the black Labrador literally shadowed him.
Mahe has become a big part of the Isaac family’s life. Having a kid with autism could get complicated, especially when going out. Since James didn’t like holding his parent’s hands or being restrained, being in public places can be very stressful both for James and his family.
But now, James gets to enjoy walking around while he is fastened with a belt connected to Mahe. Through this, the boy gets to explore freely without feeling uneasy. Likewise, for the family, they finally get to socialize with their community again with fewer worries.
All of this is possible, thanks to Assistance Dogs New Zealand (ADNZ). They have been training Mahe since she was still a little pup to cater to James’ needs specifically. Since then, life has become a little bit easier and brighter for the Isaac family.
Video Credit: Inside Edition
