Nigel & Joy Harrison have 5 boys. Sam, Ben, Luke, Josh, & Isaac. Three children have Autism. Isaac the youngest was non verbal, and struggles socially and emotionally. He is easily distracted and overwhelmed, he finds busy environments difficult to cope with, as a result he will run away, and this is dangerous when near roads or rivers. If Isaac becomes lost as he is unable to communicate or say his name. 

In January 2019 Alfie a 7 week old Golden Retriever entered their lives. He was carefully chosen by Helpful Hounds to be an Autism Assistance dog for their family. Alfie has been life changing, within 10 days of his arrival Zac began to talk a little. He has given the children confidence and independence, and as Alfies training progresses he will help to provide a calmer and safer environment for the children both at home and in new places. 

Alfie the Autism Assistance dog has unlimited access to public places enabling the whole family to do simple things such as shopping, and go to new places which is currently a struggle. When fully trained Alfie will act on instruction from the parent while the child is encouraged to walk alongside the dog. Alfie when trained will offer greater independence to the Isaac and parents, whilst ensuring he is safe and if he becomes stressed or anxious. A fully-trained autism assistance dog will help change behaviour by Introducing routines, reducing bolting behaviour, interrupting repetitive behaviour, helping the children cope with unfamiliar surroundings.

This fundraising page will continue for several events until all the funds are raised... the first being Team Alfie who are running the Salisbury 1/2 Marathon. Joy has entered for the London Marathon in October 2021, and the Salisbury 10 Mile in April 2022. 

We hope to smash our target (£5000 for Alfie's training with Helpful Hounds,  and donate (£5000) to train another assistance dogs so that we may bless another family.  

The Harrison Family wish to thank in advance everyone whom has supported Alfie, their family & Helpful Hounds