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Neurodivergent dog owners in the UK are finding life-changing benefits through the training program offered by Infinity Dogs CIC, a non-profit organization helping individuals with complex disabilities train their own assistance dogs. Founded by Ruby Welsford, who has autism and cerebral palsy, the organization addresses a significant need for personalized assistance dog training.
A unique aspect of the program involves visits to Cotswold Wildlife Park, where dogs learn to interact with multiple species and navigate various scenarios. Welsford, inspired by her own transformative experiences, noted, “Under the Equality Act 2010, we are allowed to train our own assistance dog, and I realized there was a huge need for it.”
Welsford's initiative began post-COVID after receiving numerous inquiries about training assistance dogs. Participants like Eva and Ella have seen significant benefits. Eva, who has anxiety and PTSD, shared her experience training her dog, Katie:
“Katie alerts me when I start to get stressed by sensing a rise in my cortisol levels. The touch of her next to me helps me not feel lost. It’s not easy, but the alternative is constant panic and anxiety.”
Ella, preparing her 11-month-old dog Malarkey to join her at university, has postural tachycardia syndrome (PoTS), which causes her heart rate to spike upon standing.
“I wouldn't be able to live independently without Malarkey. Training a dog to help me function in society is incredible,” she says.
Cotswold Wildlife Park, a dog-friendly venue, hosts these critical training sessions. Ruby Welsford praises the park's challenging environment, which builds confidence in both dogs and handlers. Reggie Hayworth, managing director of Cotswold Wildlife Park, emphasizes the program’s transformative impact, noting how it helps reduce social isolation for those with disabilities.
Infinity Dogs CIC and Cotswold Wildlife Park are fostering independence and social connection for neurodivergent individuals, proving to be a lifeline for many.
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