actbiggy
Young Alida Knobloch’s faithful dog, Mr. Gibbs, truly saves her life.
Mr. Gibbs, a 60-pound golden doodle owned by three-year-old Alida Knobloch, and Alida are practically inseparable. Due to Alida’s unique lung condition, they are bound together by a special bond of love and a two-foot tubing that carries oxygen from tanks on the dog’s back to Alida’s nose.
Alida, a resident of Loganville, Georgia, was identified as having neuroendocrine cell hyperplasia of infancy (NEHI) at the age of eight months. Alida is unable to sustain normal breathing for more than 45 minutes on her own. Therefore, Mr. Gibbs follows her practically everywhere while toting 10 pounds of gear, including an oxygen tank in a vest.
Mr. Gibbs and Alida have worked closely with dog trainer Ashleigh Kinsleigh to develop the unique relationship between girl and dog, despite the fact that young children typically lack the skills to control a service dog. Her parents are Aaron and Debbie Knobloch.
Kinsleigh explains, “His role is to follow her lead.” Mr. Gibbs has so far mastered the ability to follow Alida as she rides her bike, plays around the house with her, and tucks himself under her high chair as she eats.
Photo Credits – USA TODAY
Aaron says, “Our hope is that Mr. Gibbs will be able to accompany Alida to kindergarten by the time she starts.”
Childhood disease experts have informed the Knoblochs that while some children outgrow the need for supplementary oxygen, Alida will likely always require some sort of oxygen support.
The Knobloch family now finds it difficult to foresee a time when the two friends with sandy hair won’t be together. Aaron observes that Mr. Gibbs seems to depend on Alida just as much as she does. If the dog and Alida are separated even for a brief period of time, the dog gets unhappy.
Watch the loving video below:
How Do Service Dogs Help Young Children?
Service dogs are trained specifically to help those who are disabled. The use of service dogs to support youngsters with various medical issues has become more popular in recent years.
One such illness that frequently demands the use of an oxygen tank is congenital heart disease. A service dog can be a great asset for a child with this disease because they can help with carrying the oxygen tank and occasionally give goodies.
The dog can be the child’s support system and companion as well. Additionally, having a service dog around can reduce anxiety and offer comfort in challenging or new circumstances.
Although most people are aware that service dogs help persons with physical limitations, did you know that service dogs may also be an enormous help to young children?
Even though service dogs for children may not be as widespread as those for adults, they can still be helpful in a variety of ways. For instance, by staying by their side and ensuring their safety, a service dog can help a young child who has a propensity to wander off.
Toddlers who are having anxiety or sensory problems can also benefit from their comfort and company.
Additionally, a service dog might occasionally act as a reminder for young children who are still learning how to use the restroom. In conclusion, service dogs can help young children in a variety of ways, and they will undoubtedly appreciate a treat now and then.
