Assistance dogs do more than detect seizures, they also provide comfort and fun

Last year, Melissa Clode was tossing up whether to get a new dog for her family.

She knew taking on a puppy was a big commitment, and could lead to a lot of extra work.

And her family already has a lot on its plate — her seven-year-old son Charlie suffers from myriad health problems, including a heart condition, an intellectual disability and autism.