Autism Assistance Dog Albie Brings Safety and Calm to Seven-Year-Old Seb
Sebastian ‘Seb’ Dean, a seven-year-old boy from Grantham, Lincolnshire, is autistic and does not recognise danger, leading to frequent risky situations. His mother, Rachel, often had to chase him as he ran into bodies of water or straight into roads, putting his safety at constant risk.
Rachel explained: “He has a fascination with water—he would sprint into the sea, lakes, rivers, or ponds without hesitation. He’s incredibly fast and doesn’t care about depth or cleanliness, and he can’t swim.”
Life-Changing Partnership with Albie
Since graduating as a partnership from the national Support Dogs charity with autism assistance dog Albert, nicknamed Albie, Seb’s life has transformed. When out and about, Seb is tethered to the Yellow Labrador and walks calmly beside him, significantly reducing the risk of elopement.
Additionally, Seb’s meltdowns have decreased due to Albie’s calming presence. Rachel, 38, who lives with her husband Tom, a 40-year-old engineer, noted that Seb struggles with sensory processing and can easily become overwhelmed by loud noises.
Improved Communication and Family Life
Seb is non-verbal but loves to ‘sing,’ and Rachel has observed more signs of communication since Albie arrived. She said: “I really think Albie has had a big effect on Seb, not only in keeping him safe, but he’s just more mellow and chilled.”
Previously, simple tasks like shopping could take up to 45 minutes as Seb refused to cooperate, but now, with Albie by his side, he knows he can’t run off. Rachel added: “It’s lovely—the first time they were both attached, they both just ‘got’ it. Seb still feels free as his hands are available for sensory toys.”
Enhanced Family Activities and Support
The Deans can now enjoy more activities together, such as eating at restaurants, which was once avoided due to potential disasters. Rachel, an IT worker, shared: “It’s had a big impact. Previously, we would avoid places, but now Albie sits under the table, acting like a safety blanket for Seb in new environments.”
Rachel noticed differences in Seb from 11 months old, and he was diagnosed with autism at age three. After seeing a Support Dogs post on Instagram, she applied to the charity, which trains assistance dogs for autistic children and those with physical disabilities.
Graduation and Perfect Match
After a 12-month wait, Seb was matched with Albie in November 2024, and they graduated from the programme in just seven months, attending the ‘Class of ‘25’ ceremony. Rachel wanted a dog with a fun personality similar to Seb’s, and Albie fit perfectly.
She praised Support Dogs: “Albie has brought so much love and light into our house for everyone. I sing the praises of Support Dogs to everyone—they’re absolutely amazing and have been incredibly supportive.”
