A Little Boy Who Had Previously Been Scared Of Dogs Eventually Touches His First Puppy
Misha Brandt is a 15-year-old autistic kid who is incredibly lovely and affectionate. However, he has been scared of dogs since infancy and has chosen to avoid them. Misha’s mother, Angela Brandt, vice president of the Ontario Autism Coalition, says it’s been a long journey, but those anxieties are starting to fade.
She explained to The Dodo:
“He acquired illogical worries, which are typical in autistic youngsters. The most of my son’s illogical worries faded with time, but his fear of dogs became a phobia.
Angela continues:
«He enjoys watching the dogs play! He’s still terrified when the dogs get too close, but he’s now approaching all of them and asking their names.
Misha and her mother went to the beach with their retired service dog, Basil, and an autism advocacy buddy. Despite the fact that Misha was already acquainted with the dog, he was usually wary of getting too close; however, that day was different, and she ventured close enough to caress Basil in front of her mother and a friend.
Her mother was overjoyed since she had taken a significant stride forward that day. Misha also played with the dog on the beach and discovered that she didn’t have to be afraid of him; in his company, the dog was lovely and pleased.
Angela stated:
“For him, that was a major step.” My heart rejoiced as I watched Misha enjoying a good time.
#TodayInABA my son with #autism played with a dog! May not seem like much, but he has a phobia of dogs. We’re still working on it but #ABA gave him the tools to overcome fear and anxiety as well as many other skills! pic.twitter.com/XXuQG8kxIV
— Angela Brandt (@AutismMomMisha) August 3, 2020
This technique was really beneficial to the young man, who has expressed an interest in playing with Basil again. Something they thought was impossible has now turned into an enjoyable event that Misha desires to repeat.
Then they headed out again, this time with Misha holding Basil’s leash. Service dogs are a tremendous help for individuals with autism; it was formerly thought to be impossible in Misha’s life due to her phobia, but owing to this advancement, it is now feasible.