Rescue Group Denies Dog Adoption for Family With Autistic Son

After refusing to approve the dog adoption for a family with a child with autism, Kismutt Small Dog Rescue, an animal organization based in Ontario, Canada, has received some backlash for alleged discrimination.

Advocates and parents of children with disabilities believe that the rescue group should change its policy or face boycotts from the locals. Despite the backlash, Kismutt Small Dog Rescue reiterated why they could not agree to a dog adoption for families with children with autism.

In a post on Facebook, the operator of the rescue group cited that they had two instances of dog adoptions where the autistic children hurt the animals. One of these incidents led to a dog incurring stitches on its head because the child "smashed a fan" and tried to cut the animal.

"Some may criticize my policy," the operator said, reiterating that the policy has been in place since 2012. "I just will not take a chance with another dog."

"Never Hurt a Fly"

Parents Mike and Erin Doal shared via CBC that they decided to look into dog adoption after their son, Henry Doal, 9, expressed his desire to have a dog. Henry is on the autism spectrum and is non-verbal, but he communicates with a special software installed on his iPad.

Erin said that it made her happy to hear her son express his desire for a pet. However, it broke her heart after making inquiries from Kismutt Small Dog Rescue, who rejected their request without ever seeing Henry or their family. The mother said the decision disheartened her because her son "would never hurt a fly."

The mom further said she wanted to raise awareness of their experience with such rejection. Erin noted that there is so much misinformation and ignorance about autistic kids that their story would be a good reminder not to generalize every child or situation.

"Hurtful and Discriminatory"

Janet McLaughlin, a professor at Wilfrid Laurier University, said it's "hurtful and discriminatory" to lump all autistic people in the same brush. She said all kids, whether or not they have disabilities, have different behaviors.

Mom Cassidy Sabo, who has a rescue dog for her son with autism, told CTV News that the Doan family's situation was "discrimination loud and clear." She said that she was offended by Kismutt's policy and hoped that the operators would see the situation as a learning experience.

Krista London, another mom with two kids under the spectrum, doesn't understand why Kismutt singled out autistic kids when all children have their meltdowns or unpredictable moods. She said it's the parents' job to ensure that their son or daughter is safe alone with the dog since pets can be unpredictable as well.

Autism Ontario also released a statement objecting to Kismutt's discriminatory practice and reminded of the need for more education about autism. Meanwhile, Erin said that they have not stopped looking for the right organization that will give them a chance at dog adoption.