How a specially trained dog could change this family’s life

A NORTHSIDE mother has launched an appeal to raisefunds to purchase an autism service dog that will benefit two of her children.

Chantal McQuirk, from Clonshaugh, has started her campaign with the aim of raising

?¬5,000, half of the total cost.

My Canine Companion (MCC), a national charity based in Blarney, County Cork, trains the dogs to assist children and young adults living with autism.

Each service dog costs the charity just over

?¬10,000 to train. Ms McQuirk, who has applied to MCC for a service dog, is hoping to meet the charity half way on the funding.

Her daughter Jessica (18) was diagnosed with Asperger’s syndrome at the age of 11, while her son Dillon (13) has learning and communication difficulties.

Ms McQuirk has two other children – James (15) and Jonathan (8) – who don’t have the condition.

Ms McQuirk said that since Jessica was diagnosed with Asperger’s syndrome, she has had a tough time interacting with others socially and has repetitive behaviour.

“Jessica is a very bright young woman,

? her mum told Northside People.

“She is very creative and loves to draw. She is also a big animal lover and is very kind towards them.

“Jessica will always suffer from anxiety in school, crowded places such as restaurants, shopping centres, public transport, and in a regular working environment.

?

Ms McQuirk believes that having a fully trained service dog will improve Jessica’s quality of life in so many ways.

“The dog would help her gain her independence, while travelling on public transport, eating in restaurants, going to shops, or just even being in crowded places, such as school,

? she said.

“The service dog would be able to soothe and comfort her, and help her cope with stress on a daily basis.

?

Ms McQuirk believes that the service dog would also have a very calming effect on her son.

“Dillon is a very energetic young boy to be around,

? she said.

“He has sensory seeking behaviour that results in major meltdowns both in public places and at home.

“The service dog would also have a very calming effect on him. It would give him a sense of responsibility and confidence.

?

Ms McQuirk said that since her involvement with My Canine Companion, which she describes as a

“fabulous

? charity, she has seen the difference the autism service dogs have made to other children.

“I have no doubt that if we were able to get one, it would greatly improve Jessica and Dillon’s quality of life,

? she added.

“It would also make our family days out together more relaxed and more enjoyable.

?

The McQuirks, who have three dogs, began their fundraising campaign recently. They are very grateful to those who have helped so far, including Jessica’s school, Mercy College, Coolock, and her former primary school, St John of God in Artane. They also took part in a

‘Jog for a Dog’ event, organised by MCC.

On Friday, June 26, St David’s Boys’ National School in Artane is holding a Coffee Morning to raise more funds.

My Canine Companion is a national charity founded in 2011 by Cliona O’Rourke. Its main purpose is to provide highly trained and skilled service dogs to people with disabilities, particularly autism.

As a registered charity it receives no Government funding and relies solely on community, individual and corporate funding to be able to continue to provide service dogs to children and families living with autism.

The charity requires significant funding to achieve its goal of placing at least 20 service dogs a year with recipient families.

?¢If you would like to help the McQuirk family with their appeal, email [email protected] for more information.