Two-Legged Rescue Dog Gives Autistic Brother Heartwarming Boost of Confidence

Dogs have a unique way of capturing our hearts. Their unconditional love and devotion can teach us to be fearless and brave. Some seem to understand us the moment we meet them, making our connection even more profound.

This young man experienced this when he first met his special-needs dog. Despite her physical disability, she maintained her zest for life. She was just what he needed to see the strength in himself.

Hear their heartwarming story in this video from September 7:

I firmly believe that dogs have a way of finding their people, and this sweet former street dog indeed found hers. Amira’s mom, Lara (@amira.amiracle), reports her son is on the autism spectrum and struggles with ADHD and an auditory processing disorder. Although most people would never know, Toren is aware of his differences, making him reserved and shy. Not wanting to "look stupid" in front of his peers, he hesitates to engage in unfamiliar activities, which could result in someone making fun of him.

So, when Amira joined the family with an eye and front legs missing, Lara couldn't have dreamed that this disabled dog would help her son see that these differences did not hold her back. He watched her stumble and fall only to get back up again, and he saw her overcome the challenge of learning to walk with prosthetic legs. This fearlessness has been contagious. After years of building each other's confidence, Toren is now teaching other children on the spectrum how to play tennis and has even gotten his driver’s license. Dogs genuinely have the power to heal and show us that life is made for living, no matter our difficulties or differences.

Related: Inspirational Rescue Dogs with Disabilities Spread Pure Joy at the Beach

Ways Dogs Can Help Children Thrive

According to the Child Mind Institute, dogs can help kids overcome challenges by providing unconditional love and companionship. This can help reduce anxiety and stress, particularly in children with autism. Dogs can encourage children to engage in more social behavior, such as making eye contact or speaking, which can help build confidence and develop social skills. Simply petting a dog can offer calm and comfort for children with sensory processing issues, helping to prevent overstimulation. Having a pet can also provide routine and structure and increase physical activity levels.

This story of unconditional love touched people. Viewer @roadogs responded, “So awesome. Thank you for sharing their beautiful bond. Animals help people help each other.” That’s the truth. Viewer @georginahowse remarked, “What a gorgeous relationship. You must be so proud of them both. Such big hearts.” This mom has much to be proud of.

This former street dog may have had a rough beginning, but she has not let that stop her from living her best life—all while making sure her brother lives his best life, too. It's undoubtedly why they are revered as man's best friend.