Seven-year-old Davin Stogsdill-Mercer of Ringling, OK, is the human that belongs to a yellow Labrador Retriever named Boyd. Boyd is named after Oklahoma actor William Boyd who became the famous movie character of 'Hop Along Cassidy".

Davin can't sit up or hold his head up due to cerebral palsy. But, according to his mom Misty, Davin's life is now much happier because of his new best friend and constant canine companion. "Boyd loves on Davin all the time and causes the rest of the children to interact more with Davin as they all play on the floor together."

Davin's physicial therapist also said that Boyd motivates Davin try to use his arms and body in ways nothing else can. Most of us take for granted being able to pet a dog. For Davin, it's a huge effort and the best reward possible.

Some dogs that were raised for an Assistance Dog are better suited for Therapy Dogs. These dogs are placed as "special needs" dogs with people with severe disabilities.

The dog is a companion and therapists use the dog to encourage and motivate patients to try new and difficult activities with the dog as their reward. These dogs go to therapy sessions and the family receives the same training support as the Assistance Dogs.