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Mom In Tears As Child With Autism Finds New Friend
This pulls at my heartstrings!
Heidi Kennedy
09.06.19

Kai Neihaus is five year’s old and lives in Japan with his parents and brother. Kai has autism and his family is surprising him with a new friend. Kai’s new buddy is his new service dog, Tornado and the two are going to be the best of friends.

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They live in Japan but came back to the US to get a service dog.

The Neihaus family lives in Japan with their two sons. The older, Kai, has autism. Kai has struggled to make friends and has trouble communicating.

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They decided to travel back to the US to get a service dog for Kai who could be a companion and help if Kai ever became lost. Their new service dogs name is Tornado and is a Golden Retriever.

The little boy was beyond excited when he met the dog for the first time.

The second that Kai sees Tornado walk through the door, he takes off running towards him. You can see the excitement as he just can’t contain his happiness. Tornado is excited to see him too and is having a hard time focusing on the trainer while they walk towards the family.

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His mom went over to grab Kai’s hand and help lead them back to where his dad was waiting. It was love at first sight as Kai hugs Tornado and is anxious to show his affection. They will stay in the US for 12 days and will take him back home with them to Japan. This is part of the training organization’s methods to set the family up for success.

Mom breaks down in tears when she sees the two of them together.

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As time goes on, Tornado and Kai begin to calm and relax with one another. Kai lays against Tornado’s back as they relax on the floor, looking incredibly comfortable. Tornado will help provide a sense of comfort for Kai as they will spend countless hours together. If Kai ever goes missing, Tornado will be able to help with search and rescue efforts.

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Service dogs are trained to help those diagnosed with autism.

Organizations like 4 Paws For Ability have developed training for dogs to help children with autism. Designed specifically with young children in mind, the organization is leading the way in training their dogs in task training and tracking skills.

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Service dogs are known for having keen senses and are taught to provide distraction and help with the emotional toll that those with autism suffer from. The dogs help keep the children safe by staying by their side should they wander off or by interrupting potentially destructive behavior if they see the child is in distress.

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The dogs are also a source of comfort for the children, helping them sleep better and knowing that they always have a friend nearby.

It is amazing the understanding that dogs can have to help comfort children with autism. The Niehaus family will be very blessed to have Tornado along for the ride.

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Source: 4 Paws For Ability

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