Through Autism Support Dog Marco’s eyes: My life as Louis’s best friend

Greetings, humans! My name is Marco. I am not just any dog – I am an Autism Support Dog, and I have the most important job in the world: being there for my best friend, Louis. Let me tell you about our journey together!

Before I came along, life could be tough for Louis. You see, Louis is autistic with ADHD and pathological demand avoidance (PDA), not a very understood and highly complex profile of autism. At the peak of his autistic burnout, he did not leave home for almost 18 months, feeling overwhelmed by the big, noisy world. Everything outside felt too much, too fast, too unpredictable.

But then something amazing happened – one day, unexpectedly, Louis told his mom he wanted a dog. Apparently, the conversation went something like this:

“I want to get a dog,” Louis said to his mom.

“A dog?” she replied, “but you are petrified of dogs.” (That is true; Louis used to fear us!)

“I will not be scared of a dog that is mine,” he assured her.

Louis’s mom had read about Autism Support Dogs, but given Louis’s fear, never thought it would be an option for them. After their little chat, she reached out to South African Guide-Dogs Association for the Blind and applied. A few months later, she received a phone call sharing the good news that Louis would meet his new friend soon, and… that is where I come in!

A new adventure begins

When I first met Louis, I knew I had to be patient. His excitement was palpable, but I could feel he was a little nervous, too. I sat quietly, letting him come to me on his own terms. And do you know what? He did. So, I did what any hero in my position would do: I rolled on my back, put on my signature toothy grin and let him rub my tummy. From that very moment, we just clicked.

Life with Louis is an adventure! Before he met me, he did not go out much. But now? We go everywhere together. Swimming lessons, the park, the beach, restaurants, the theatre (I am a very cultured dog, you see) – you name it, we have been there! And the best part? Louis is not just out in the world; he is engaging with it. He talks with other dog owners in the neighbourhood, proudly telling them all about me. It turns out that dogs are a wonderful conversation starter!

At home, I have special jobs, too. Every morning, I bring Louis the television remote (because what is a good morning without your favourite show?). When I want to go for a walk, I pick up his shoes – Louis is getting so good at reading my body language and nonverbal communication, too, which is fantastic! At bedtime, I make sure he is calm and comfortable, helping him fall asleep peacefully. We have a soft special blanket on his bed we love to share.

One of my most important jobs is making the invisible visible. When I wear my special jacket, people that understand Louis has unique needs. Instead of confusion or judgement, we receive kindness and understanding. My jacket helps to start conversations about autism and Assistance Dogs, and that means we can help even more people understand what children like Louis need to feel safe and accepted.

A family transformed

I am not just here for Louis – I am here for his entire family. His parents feel relief knowing that I am by his side every moment of every day, helping him navigate the world. His little brother loves having me around, too! I bring laughter, comfort and a little bit of mischief (because, let’s be honest, every good dog knows how to have fun!).

Louis also loves running my Instagram account, sharing our adventures with the world. He is so proud of me, and I am very proud of him, too. (Look me up: @guidedogmarco).

None of this would have been possible without my Puppy Raiser, Shannon, who loved and trained me for two whole years before I met Louis. It must have been so hard for her to say goodbye (I know it was for me), but I hope she knows I am exactly where I am meant to be. I will forever be grateful to SA Guide-Dogs Association for training me and preparing me for my new life as Louis’s companion. My family and I are so grateful to them!

What’s next?

Our journey is just beginning. I will be by Louis’s side for years to come, helping him grow, explore and embrace the world with confidence. Autism Support Dogs like me do more than assist; we form unbreakable bonds that change lives.

So, if you ever see me and Louis out and about, give us a smile (or a treat)! We are on a mission to show the world what is possible when you have the right support (and a great dog by your side).

With a wagging tail and endless love,

Marco

 

Written by Marie Kenny