Pocono News Section

Pocono Family Needs Autism Assistance Dog

Pocono Family Needs Autism Assistance Dog - Thursday, September 10, 2009 at 9:05PM EST

Reported by: Laurie Monteforte
Thursday, Sep 10, 2009 @ 09:05pm EST
MIDDLE SMITHFIELD, MONROE COUNTY- Danielle and Daniel Cloward expected their fourth child to be just like their first three, but he was different.

Kevin has autism.

Danielle Cloward, Kevin's mother said, "You almost go through a grieving for the child. A Child you had hoped you would have had, or you had hoped he would be."

Daniel Cloward, Kevin's father said, "It's almost disheartening because for me that changes a lot of what I'd expect him to do."

Kevin, 5, barely speaks and has trouble socializing.

Danielle said, "He has temper tantrums really bad, especially around all of his siblings."

He also runs away.

He once got out of a fenced yard and ran into a busy street.

Daniel said, "If it wouldn't have been for a very good samaritan at that point, we might not have a Kevin right now."

The Clowards say a service dog could help their son.

"This might be an opportunity to help curb some of these poor behaviors," said Danielle.

Dogs have been shown to calm children, protect them, and encourage them to speak.

Danielle said, "Basically you take it one step at a time."

Autism Service Dogs of America approved Kevin to receive a service dog.

He's only the second child in Pennsylvania to get approval.

But first his parents need to pay for it.

A dog for Kevin would cost about $15,000.

So far the family has raised just about $5,000.

The family has organized several fund-raisers to help pay the bill so Kevin can have a furry friend, teacher and guide.

For more information click the link

When it asks for a child's name put Kevin Cloward.