Meet the talented Daisy, who works with Marcus, an autistic teenager and his family. Hear how this golden retriever has transformed the lives of her human partner and those closest to him.

Daisy provides an invaluable early warning of an impending meltdown with 100% accuracy – which has opened up public places and travel to the whole family. On the increasingly rare occasions that Marcus becomes emotionally disregulated, her training in deep pressure work means that she helps him to calm down.  

Presenter Kate Fairweather introduces Marcus’ mum, Hilary Armour, a skilled animal behaviourist, dog trainer, special needs schoolteacher and founder of the Alton-based charity, Dogs for Autism.

Hilary personally trained her son’s first assistance dog.  She explains the subtleties of family groups, where the dog is part of a team of carers. She also describes how the assistance dog partnership evolves when child and dog grow up together as part of the family.

Do you work your dog?

Would you be willing to talk to Kate about working dogs on Dogs with Jobs?

Please get in touch at team@shineradio.uk or leave a message on 01730 555 500. She’s always interested, loves dogs and would be delighted to hear from you. We can chat outdoors – it’s all very informal.