Without a Service Dog

By
Heather
Published: May 6, 2009Posted in: Service DogTags: , ,
Without a Service Dog

My son has been paired with Chewy, autism service dog for over 2 years now. They go almost everywhere together and this week has been a real eyeopener into how integral he has become.

During the week Chewy was attacked by another dog. The owner just stood by while he was attacked. Nothing I did got this dog to let go, so I had to pry him off, getting bit several times myself. I filed the police report and spoke with animal control. I was taken to the ER to have the wound cleaned and stiched. I gave Chewy a look over and he seemed to be ok, except a couple scrapes.

Turns out he had a decent puncture wound under his chin. Of course he did not conplain or let us know and it was covered with hair. Turns out it became infected. Chewy is on medication and basically bed rest, so we are home with him.

One thing I found intersting is everyone asked why in the world I would get in the middle of a dog fight. To me and my son it is quite clear, to protect Chewy. Chewy is a service dog, not a pet. Chewy is a member of our family, not a pet. My son would be devestated without Chewy, so without thought I will do almost anything for him.

Since the attack Chewy has not been feeling well. This has greatly impacted our lives. We had to skip my son’s baseball tournament as he does not go without Chewy. Horseback riding lessons were difficult and he was stressed when he went riding without Chewy. We made one short trip to the grocery store and decided we will wait till he is feeling better. A service dog becomes so much a part of your life and you rely on them so much. It gets to the point you just know they will always be there, but when they are not, the whole world changes.

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About the Author

Heather is mother to a 10 year old son with autism. They live in the Southwest Florida area and travel around the state on numerous adventures.