Feb 13, 2008 1:22 pm US/Pacific
Dog Becomes Guardian Angel For Boy With Epilepsy
Man's Best Friend Will Help Spot Seizures
BOSTON (CBS) ―
It was a day of making new friends at Hanscom Air Base in Massachusetts. Jacob Larwood, 10, suffers from epilepsy, and soon, a dog will help watch for seizures.
"Right now, we rely on video cameras," said Jacob's father, Sgt. Rob Larwood. "So that part's going to be easier…That we can actually have something in the room with him."
Jacob met with a golden retriever named Fay on Wednesday. Later this year, Jacob will meet a canine like Fay in Atlanta, Georgia, who will be his new companion.
He and his new dog, who Jacob said will be named "Picachoo" from the cartoon "Pokemon," will spend two weeks in Georgia before returning home to start their new life together.
Jacob is part of a new program that is helping kids gain independence through canine assistance.
"I don't think people realize how much of a change this is going to be…a good change for him on a daily basis," said Jacob's mom.
The makers of Milk-Bone are footing the bill not only for training Jacob's new dog, but also for taking care of the dog over the course of its life, which adds up to about $15,000.
Jacob's father said he is so thankful for what he son has been given.
"To be able to receive something like this is… just a blessing in itself. To give us the most peace of mind we've had in five to six years," he said.
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