Becoming a child’s best friend

They may be described as non-verbal communicators but nevertheless many of our canine companions do a sterling job of understanding and relating to some of the most vulnerable members of society.

Assistance dogs can come in all shapes and sizes — mixed breeds, golden retrievers, labradors.

I came across a Newfoundland/golden retriever cross recently that I’d love to meet. He had changed the lives of a family who had a child with autism.