‘THE PERFECT match’ – the parents of an autistic Rugby boy have praised the life-changing impact his support dog has had, as he heads into his final year of primary school.
Two years ago, a Fox Red Labrador named Peggy padded into the lives of Noah Shone, 10, and his family – and changed everything.
Trained and provided by the national Support Dogs charity, the loveable Lab came at a time when the family was navigating daily challenge – struggles with getting to school, going out, and helping Noah to regulate overwhelming emotions.
Parents Robert and Kay say their world has expanded since Peggy’s arrival, allowing Noah to have new experiences and make unforgettable memories.
Robert said: “He’s grown so much, and alongside him every step of the way has been Peggy – his autism assistance dog, his calming presence, his constant companion – and, as we often say, his ‘dog twin’.”
Previously, Noah had refused to leave the house, apart from attending school.
But now, pooch Peggy helps Noah by calming him when he’s overwhelmed, keeping him anchored during transitions, and being his ‘social shield’ – helping him to manage his anxiety in situations that might otherwise lead to panic or shutdown.
Noah will now happily go out for birthday meals, visit restaurants, and even pop out for breakfast. He’s discovered a passion for reading, and with Peggy by his side, he’s now able to visit Rugby Library and the family’s beloved local bookshop, Hunt’s.
Noah has also found the confidence to attend salon appointments, something that once seemed impossible.
They’ve gone on holidays to Butlins in Bognor Regis, had close-up animal encounters, and even attended Crufts. Noah now contributes to fundraising for Support Dogs, something he takes real pride in.
He’s performed in school plays – with Peggy watching proudly from the audience. He’s taken emotional breaks during family events by walking Peggy outside. And he’s had swimming lessons while she watches, loyally stationed at the poolside.
The Shones describe Peggy as ‘the perfect match we never expected’ – having fallen for her instantly when she first visited their home for a suitability assessment.
Robert said: “At the time, we never dreamed she could be our dog. But when we were told we’d been matched with her, it felt like winning the lottery.
“With Support Dogs, the matching process is about deep compatibility. And in Peggy, we found not just a match, but a family member.”
As well as Noah, Robert, a 41-year-old information security engineer for Simply Business and Kay, a 46-year-old administration manager, have also been diagnosed with autism.
Although Support Dogs provides autism assistance dogs for children rather than adults, Peggy brings the whole family comfort, calm and structure.
Robert added: “The bond between Noah and Peggy is something beyond words. It transcends categories like ‘handler’ and ‘support animal’. She is a part of us.
“For those families currently waiting, or considering applying to Support Dogs, we want to say this: it’s life-changing. It’s worth the wait. It’s worth the effort. The journey isn’t always easy – but it’s absolutely, 100 per cent worth it.
“Because somewhere out there, your Peggy is waiting for you.”
Rita Howson, chief executive of Support Dogs, which also trains and provides assistance dogs to help adults affected by epilepsy or physical disability, said: “We are so pleased to hear about the amazing impact Peggy has had. This is why we do what we do.”
Visit www.supportdogs.org.uk or call 0114 2617800 for more information about Support Dogs.
