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Oliver's Program
Ryan is a little boy living
with Autism Spectrum Disorder. Ryan and his toy poodle,
Oliver, (pictured above) were
inseparable. Oliver had a calming effect on Ryan and was
instrumental in helping Ryan handle his own anxiety. It is
Ryan's remarkable relationship with his dog and the research that
his mom, and our program coordinator, Elizabeth "Liz"
Andersen, has done regarding the impact animals have on those living
with disabilities that fostered this program. "Liz" made plans to hire Oliver out to be bred with other pedigree poodles with the fee being "pick of the litter". Her intention was to then donate these pups. When Oliver suddenly passed away, Ryan and the family were devastated and as "Liz" feared, Ryan's anxiety began to return. She was a little apprehensive about attempting to replace his pet, but decided to give it a try. Ryan met "Teddy" (who he at first named "Oliver") and the two became instant friends, and the same calming effect occurred.
"Liz" has since then been working diligently to build on the program through advertising and networking and is constantly forming working relationships with breeders statewide, and "doggies" are being donated by reputable breeders. The program is being very well received and "Liz" reports that there is already a waiting list.
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"Liz"
was even more excited for all the children she knew would benefit
from having a dog, and so "Oliver's Program" was
launched. Through this program, pedigree pups or dogs are
placed in the homes of children living with Autism and other
disabilities, who would otherwise not be able to afford a pet.
While "Liz" is carrying out her original plan by hiring
out "Teddy", she managed to build a relationship with a
breeder (who wished to remain anonymous) that led to the donation of
four pedigree toy poodles. "Oliver's Program"
officially began with the placement of
those poodles in new homes on New Year's Eve, 2008.
