Dog Connects with Children on Spectrum

BERGENFIELD, N.J. -- The Rhodesian Ridgeback stands patiently as Jack Seidler, 9, whose mother says "never interacts with anybody," first pats, then hugs, then drapes himself across the dog’s broad back. The mother catches her breath in surprise. The dog’s trainer smiles.
Wyatt has worked his magic again.
Dogs have been helping the disabled for centuries, but only recently has there been a concerted movement to provide dogs as therapy for autistic children. A decade ago, there were few organizations offering trained companion or service dogs to autistic people. Now there are dozens.