Harold’s Story
When People See a Disabled Child, Conversations Tend to Shut Down
When They See a Disabled Dog, They Tend to Open Up
Part school ambassador, part educator, part communication facilitator, and part therapy dog, Harold serves our students and community in ways we (and probably he) could never have dreamed about a few short years ago.
Without saying a word, Harold helps give voice to questions people are afraid to ask, and in so doing he helps to bridge the gap between actual conversation, differing abilities, and tentative attitudes.
His disability helps people inside and outside of our community communicate about differences in a way that feels safe and productive.
His incredible attitude and mobility inspires student presentations - and regularly shifts people’s perspective about what it means to be disabled.
His loving temperament and training helps him respond to students who need emotional support.
Harold was found on the side of the road bloody to the bone from dragging his paralyzed back legs behind him unprotected (he now runs around in his wheelchair or with his legs safely ensconced inside a protective bag) As with all rescue dogs, we know nothing of his life before he was found.
A stroke of serendipity found Harold rescued by Rescue the Underdog in the San Francisco area. We saw him up for adoption on the Magical Bridge website and knew he needed to be our dog.
Our family adopted him, and started his training. He passed his Canine Good Citizen test with flying colors and is moving on to therapy dog training. Harold shows kids and adults of all abilities that disabilities don't matter - attitude does.
Follow his journey on Instagram @haroldonwheels.
Learn More about Student Life
Discover the application process
Donate now