A new sensory-friendly space designed to help children build confidence and positive experiences around dogs has opened in Paragould, Arkansas. Kajun K-9 Behavior & Obedience opened Tommy’s Room inside The Dog House, a quiet, low-stimulation space that allows children to interact with dogs at their own pace.
Supporting Families
Although Tommy’s Room was created with children with autism and sensory sensitivities in mind, it is open to families with children of all abilities who could benefit from a calm, controlled environment. The room is named after Tommy, the Headley family’s standard poodle and trained autism assistance dog.
Families may reserve Tommy’s Room by the hour to introduce a child to a new family dog, prepare for a future pet, help a child become more comfortable around dogs or spend one-on-one time with Tommy. The goal is to help create successful first experiences, whether that’s meeting a new puppy, preparing for a future service dog, or simply building confidence around animals.
Original reporting: NEA Report (Jonesboro) — read the source article.