The Harris family’s newest member has a tough job.
Cypress, a 1-year-old Labrador, completed his training as a service dog with 4 Paws for Ability and now acts as a companion to 6-year-old Aaron Harris who is autistic.
“Cy,” as the family calls him, has spent his first week in the family’s Carlsbad home building a bond with his new friend.
Chris and Joetta Harris’ middle child, Aaron, was diagnosed with cortical dysplasia, epilepsy and autism. Joetta Harris said that after a year considering the option and doing research, her and her husband decided that a service dog was in Aaron’s best interest. Aaron was prone to wander, a symptom of his autism that has caused his parents plenty of worry.”For us it’s peace of mind,” said Joetta Harris. Among Cy’s most important skills is his ability to track Aaron, but his job doesn’t end there.
