“I have seen Ryden smile more since he was matched with Santana than I have in his entire life," says Heather, Ryden's mom. 💙 Unfamiliar places used to cause 9-year-old Ryden extreme discomfort due to anxiety associated with cerebral palsy. Ryden is unable to speak, and his muscle movement is limited as a result of his disability. With #servicedog Santana by his side, Ryden and his family can go out to public places with ease. If Ryden starts to feel uncomfortable, Heather will have Santana lay his head on Ryden’s lap, redirecting anxiety towards petting Santana’s head, playing with his ears and rubbing his back. Santana bridges a gap between Ryden and other kids his age and provides unbeatable, unconditional love. 💕 🐕‍🦺 Link in bio to read the full story. . . . . #servicedogs #LeadWithIndependence #servicedogsofinstagram #dog #dogs #dogsofinstagram #cerebralpalsy