Nathan's precious Ruby
She helps him get dressed, she takes him to school, she switches the lights on and off, but probably the most wonderful thing that Ruby, Nathan Ford’s Companion Dog provides him with is independence.
“The first couple of weeks were such an eye opener for us,†Gavin, Nathan’s dad said. “Ruby has, in practical terms, given him age appropriate independence that an eleven year old should have. As parents we now are not hovering around him [Nathan] all the time because Nathan’s with Ruby.â€
And they certainly do want to be with one another. Nathan and Ruby have bonded extremely well. She shadows him around helping him to pick up dropped objects, like the TV remote or his playstation controller and even helps Nathan open the back door to let the Ford family’s three cats in.
Nathan and Ruby live in Queensland and go to the local beach to play frisbee and to the local park where there is a dog agility course Ruby loves, letting Nathan get out and about a lot more.
“Ruby has made Nathan a lot more outdoorsy because he can go out in the backyard by himself. She also takes him to and from school everyday and all the kids come up and greet them. They love her.â€
Ruby appeared on stage with Nathan during a choir showcase at his school and has even taught herself how to take his socks off. She allows him to achieve tasks which people in wheelchairs often find difficult and has barked when Nathan needs his family’s help.
As a relatively new charity it is quite an achievement to have been able to touch people in all parts of Australia. If you would like to show your support and help Assistance Dogs improve the lives of many more why not participate in Dogtober. Visit www.dogtober.org.au to find out more!
