Autism service dogs for Adults teams
For many autistic adults, everyday life can feel overwhelming — navigating public spaces, managing sensory overload, or connecting with others in unfamiliar settings. Service Dogs of Virginia’s Autism Service Dog program for adults is designed to offer more than comfort. These dogs bring stability, confidence, and a bridge to greater independence.
Our adult teams share how their service dogs have changed not only how they move through the world — but how they see themselves in it. From the workplace to the classroom, and through daily challenges both big and small, these stories speak to the quiet power of partnership.
Explore the testimonials below to see how SDV teams are building confidence, connection, and autonomy — one step at a time.
Brendan and SDV Manci
With just one semester left in college, Brendan was on the verge of dropping out. But with the support of his service dog, Manci, he not only graduated from West Virginia University but also took major steps toward independence.
Today, Brendan lives on his own and holds a part-time job. Manci is his constant companion and support system, helping him manage challenging social situations and boosting his confidence to navigate daily life.
“Manci is my go-to for support, especially when I feel uncomfortable around others.”
Maria and SDV Dougan
When Maria was matched with Dougan in 2021, she was beginning a big transition—moving into her first apartment and stepping into independence. Dougan quickly became a steady, calming presence through every step of the journey. Now a college student, Maria continues to lean on Dougan’s support as they navigate daily life together.
“Dougan helped me manage stress during midterms. He’s always there, knowing when to support and when to give me space.”
Their bond is unmistakable.
“A colleague said, ‘We all need someone who looks at us the way Dougan looks at Maria.’”
Together, they face academic challenges and daily routines with confidence and calm.
Click the photo to hear Maria talk about her incredible partnership with Dougan.
Didi and SDV Wylie
When Didi moved to Virginia in 2020 for her first full-time job after college, she felt overwhelmed by the loss of supports she’d relied on as a young adult with autism. Everyday tasks became sources of anxiety, and social situations were intimidating.
“For most young people, moving away from home is hard. But moving away with a disability—leaving behind all my supports—was terrifying.”
After discovering Service Dogs of Virginia’s adult autism program, Didi was matched with Wylie—a service dog who transformed her life. Wylie helps her stay grounded, alerts her to rising anxiety, guides her through busy spaces, retrieves medication, and even helps locate her car when she’s overwhelmed.
“I feel like a different person. I’m more confident and less overwhelmed. For the first time, I don’t need daily anxiety or depression meds—and sometimes not even sleep meds. All because of my best friend, Wylie.”
Since partnering with Wylie, Didi has thrived: she completed a Master’s degree, won a “Teacher of the Year” award, and leads professional development sessions with confidence—often with Wylie right by her side.
Didi credits Wylie with giving her more than support—she’s given her independence and a renewed sense of hope.
Adele and SDV Champ
For Adele, life with an Autism Service Dog has brought new confidence, stability, and comfort—both at work and in daily life. Since Champ joined her, his steady presence has made navigating adulthood and a demanding career more manageable.
Champ has become part of her daily routine, including at the office.
“He joins me at my office, and the best part of the day is taking breaks with him to get some fresh air outside. He helps navigate the uncertainties of life by being a constant companion.”
With Champ by her side, Adele has taken on an exciting new role at work.
“I started a new role at work, which is a manager role and the deputy of our group. It’s exciting work for me, and I’m enjoying it already, looking forward to learning a lot and helping out. I think Champ has had a lot to do with my comfort at the office, which enables me to demonstrate good work and get recognized for it by my colleagues.”
Champ also offers steady emotional support beyond the workplace.
“Sometimes I sit on the floor with Champ in my therapy appointment, and I think he keeps me a little more regulated so I can talk more. Also, since he goes home with me after therapy, there’s a continuity, and I can spend time with him if I’m thinking about something difficult.”
The difference Champ has made is clear. “I’m feeling more emotionally stable than I have in a while, and one major difference from a year ago is that I have Champ with me, so I guess he has a lot to do with the improvement.”
Click the photo to hear Adele share more about how Champ helps her thrive every day.
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