According to News Center Maine, the nonprofit NEADS World Class Service Dogs paired Sawyer Marston, an autistic teen, with his service dog, Emmitt, three years ago. Emmitt is a black Labrador Retriever who is uniquely trained to assist Sawyer and his parents.
Before Emmitt, Sawyer faced difficulties with tasks like turning on lights and getting tissues. Being on the autism spectrum made it hard for him to sleep and wake up independently.
Now, with Emmitt by his side, Sawyer’s daily routine has become much more settled. He now has the ability to switch off lights, remain composed in confined areas, and retrieve items from the refrigerator.
“Now, Emmitt sleeps with me in my own bed,” Sawyer said with a smile.
“Emmitt was like the missing piece of the puzzle,” added Sawyer’s mom, Melinda. “He is such a great fit for Sawyer and our family.”
Comprehensive training equips the handler and the service dog
NEADS, a Massachusetts-based nonprofit, oversees the training of both the child and adult handler, who is commonly a parent or caregiver.
According to Kara Milotte, NEADS’ manager of client services, “The parent is the primary handler, so they are responsible for keeping the dog in control to ensure that they are safe, the child is safe, and the public is safe. So, the child is the secondary handler.”
During Sawyer’s tasks, he and his mom each hold their leashes. Sawyer’s mom offers support while he commands Emmitt. The service dog is trained to establish eye contact, which is helpful for Sawyer while giving commands.
“Sawyer has it under control, but I support Sawyer and Emmitt. Emmitt knows I am the backup,” Melinda explained.
Emmitt is a constant companion to Sawyer
Healthy Pet, a magazine for pet owners at veterinary offices and clinics worldwide, highlighted Sawyer’s strong bond with the highly trained Labrador.
Emmitt has become a beloved member of the family, even to Sawyer’s older brother, Caleb.
Emmitt accompanies the teen everywhere — from doctor’s appointments to the mall, from the movies to school dances, and even at family functions like weddings. Undoubtedly, the Lab is helping Sawyer gain more confidence during social interactions.
Melinda shares with joy, “Then you look over on the dance floor, and Emmitt and Sawyer are talking … and making friends with a group of people.”
“I wouldn’t enjoy it as much if he weren’t there. Having Emmitt is a dream come true,” Sawyer stated.
Moments like these signify how the service dog has transformed Sawyer’s life. With Emmitt as a companion, Sawyer’s future is filled with hope as he grows increasingly more independent, day by day.
