LM Kaydus Declared Finalists In Pepsi's Refresh Everything Program

June 6, 2011 - PRLog -- LM Kaydus, founder of Animals for Autism is pleased to announce finalist-status for a $50k grant in the Pepsi Refresh Everything Program.  All finalists will be notified by June 23 whether or not they have achieved "winner" status.  Should that come to fruition, up to ten (10) FREE autism service animals will be placed with children and adults in need in the United States.

If you are interested in applying for one of these potentially free service animals, please access the application package at http://www.siberiansnowbabies.com/animals_for_autism and submit it to arrive no later than June 25, 2011.  Selected families will be notified on June 27, 2011.

Autism Service Dogs are trained specifically to accompany children and adults with ASDs as they move about their daily lives.  The animals help stop autism related wandering, reduce anxiety, lessen repetitive movements and calm their handlers in times of stress.  

Individuals who have an ASD often find it quite difficult to connect with others socially.  The presence of an attractive animal frequently sparks conversations and opportunities for their handler to make more social connections.

Autism service animals are trained specifically to meet the needs of the individual with whom they are to be placed.  This may include:

Alerting parents of a "runner."
Redirecting stimming or self-injurious behaviors.
Disrupting the occurance of a meltdown or rage.
Calming their humans.
Alerting  caregivers of an impending seizure
Providing individuals with a feeling of being "grounded."
Reducing anxiety in high-sensory conditions.
Improving communication skills.
Providing opportunities for positive social interaction in the community.
Improving self-esteem of their owners.

According to USA Today, "A 2004 study showed assistance dogs could help autistic children learn about living beings, feelings and needs..."

To be considered for a potential FREE autism service animal, remember to download your application at http://www.siberiansnowbabies.com/animals_for_autism and submit it no later than June 25, 2011

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Training and placement of Autism Service Animals with both adults and children with autism spectrum disorders in the United States.