Boy's Loyal Dog Refused To Let Him Go Into Surgery Alone

February 22, 2016

Wherever James Isaac goes, Mahe follows – even into the boy's hospital bed.

dog goes to surgery with boy
via Facebook / Photo credit: Louise Goossens

The 9-year-old is autistic and relies on the black labrador to keep him safe and calm. James does not speak and flinches from human touch and eye contact, but with Mahe things are different. He will curl up happily with Mahe.

dog goes to surgery with boy
via Facebook / Photo credit: Louise Goossens

When James had to go to the hospital for an MRI to help diagnose his seizures, his mother was worried how the experience would go, but was relieved that Mahe was allowed to accompany James on the visit.

dog goes to surgery with boy
via Facebook / Photo credit: Louise Goossens

As James went under general anaesthetic, Mahe watched with concern.

dog goes to surgery with boy
via Facebook / Photo credit: Louise Goossens

Mahe never left his side.

dog goes to surgery with boy
via Facebook / Photo credit: Louise Goossens

Life for the Isaac family has improve immensely since Mahe came into their lives, two years ago.

Mahe's presence not only calms James, but keeps him safe. Out and about, he is attached to Mahe on a tether. If he strays too far, or starts running towards a busy road, Mahe sits down and won't budge.

James and Mahe's best day ever!
Posted by Michelle Isaac on Sunday, January 31, 2016

"There is such a magic that happens between a child with autism and the dogs, they just calm the kids down," said Wendy Isaacs of The Assistance Dogs New Zealand Trust, who trained Mahe for six months. "The kids will maintain eye contact with the dog, but often not with their own parents and siblings."

She added that if James' seizures persisted, Mahe will be trained to pick up on early warning signs and whine or bark to alert his parents.

dog comforts boy surgery
via Facebook / Photo credit: Louise Goossens