Three-Legged Disabled Dog Helps Boy With Rare Condition Overcome His Fears

Owen Howkins became fearful of social situations at a young age when he realized a rare genetic condition called Schwartz-Jampel syndrome made him look different than other kids his age. This anxiety became so severe that the young boy started to fear leaving his English home.

Those with Schwartz-Jampel syndrome experience constantly tense muscles. Will Howkins, Owen's father, thought that finding his son an understanding companion might help relieve Owen's fears. At a local animal rescue center, Will Howkins found the perfect candidate, an Anatolian Shepherd named Haatchi.

Haatchi arrived at the rescue center after being tied to a railroad and hit by a train. The horrible incident cost the canine his tail and a back leg. Staff at the shelter feared the damaged dog may never find a home due to his disability. Now both Owen and Haatchi have found the perfect friend to help them overcome their challenges.

Owen's family says the the doting dog helps the boy cope with his frequent hospital visits and understand that physical differences don't change how people feel about you.

"Owen used to be scared of strangers but he now wants to talk to everyone about Haatchi and wants to go out all the time to dog shows," said Colleen Howkins, Owen's step mom, to the Daily Mail U.K. "The difference we see in him can't be put into words."

Haatchi will soon start bringing his healing company to others. The dog recently completed therapy training, so he can visit solider amputees and terminally ill children in hospitals.