Sep 27

Addy and Vinnie

“It has been truly life-changing having an Assistance Dog join the family. We will be forever grateful for the impact Vinnie has had on our lives.” - Haley and Jaron, Addy's parents

9-year-old Addy lives in Wellington with her loving parents, Haley and Jaron, and a doting younger sister. When she was less than a year old, Addy was diagnosed with cerebral palsy. Four years later, she was diagnosed with epilepsy as well.

Addy’s parents describe their beautiful daughter as a joyful, happy kid. She’s up for any adventure and willing to give most things a go. She’s an adrenaline junkie with a love of the outdoors and anything fast!

However, from a young age, it was evident Addy would encounter more challenges in life than most. In 2018, Addy’s parents decided to apply for an Assistance Dog. They knew it would be a long wait, but were determined to be patient knowing how life-changing one of these special dogs could be for her and their family.

While on the waiting list, Addy often struggled to navigate busy or noisy environments. She found it challenging being near large animals at the zoo or being near people who were wearing costumes. If things suddenly changed or something upset her, she would become overwhelmed with emotion and find it hard to calm down.

Addy’s family found it increasingly difficult being ‘out and about’ in their local community. There were many events they stopped attending - staying home instead to avoid Addy getting upset.

Then in 2023 after a long 5-year wait, Assistance Dog Vinnie arrived. “A standout memory was watching our girls wait at the window for him to arrive and seeing their excitement when they first saw him.” – Haley and Jaron

Vinnie was taught specific tasks to help Addy navigate everyday life. He can regulate her emotions when she’s upset, comfort her while recovering from a seizure, and is learning to retrieve items for her when she drops them from her wheelchair – all of which are a huge help to the family.

His personality brings so much joy to Addy and her family. He’s a real ‘goofball’ with a love of life. Whenever Addy’s upset, Vinnie will nuzzle into her. This gives her time to refocus and often leads to laughter and giggles instead. If she’s finding it difficult to calm down, Vinnie performs ‘deep pressure’ placing his head on her lap, helping Addy to settle within minutes.

He’s also an amazing support to Addy while she’s recovering from a seizure. After having a seizure, Addy is often very tired and will sleep for hours. Now, she has a friend who sleeps beside her while she rests. “It’s such a comforting feeling as a parent to know your child has the company of her dog while she recovers.” - Haley and Jaron.

From the moment he arrived, Vinnie’s calming presence had an immediate impact on all members of Addy’s family. He has a habit of knowing if someone at home needs a snuggle and has given his family the confidence to go out in public together and attend events they would’ve previously avoided.

Today, Addy loves going places with Vinnie and introduces him to anyone she comes across. His whole family adores him and is so excited for their future together as a family of 5. Haley and Jaron say, “It has been truly life-changing having an Assistance Dog join the family. We will be forever grateful for the impact Vinnie has had on our lives.”