Bella was born with Morquio Syndrome, a genetic condition that affects bone development, which makes walking difficult.
When the girl was 2, her parents noticed she wasn’t keeping up on her growth curve. The problem stumped her doctor, who suggested genetic testing to find out what was wrong. The tests revealed she had Morquio syndrome, a progressive disorder in which the body doesn’t produce enough of a key enzyme. That leads to a buildup of sugar molecules, which can cause problems with bone development and growth.
It’s estimated the syndrome occurs in only 1 of every
200,000 births.
In her young life so far, Bella has had many major
surgeries, including reconstruction of her hips and feet. She’s also had
problems with mobility, getting around on crutches but using them more to swing
her legs rather than walking on them. Her parents worried she was losing muscle
strength in her lower body, relying on her upper body instead to move.
That all changed when she met George.
The Burtons weren’t looking for a service animal, but about two years ago, they heard about the Service Dog Project in Ipswich, Massachusetts, which trains and donates Great Danes for people with balance and mobility issues.
With its impressive height and heft, a good temperament and
easygoing lifestyle, the breed is perfect for the job, the non-profit explains.
Most dogs are paired with adults, but when the family began
visiting, it was clear the girl was ready for a canine companion.
The Burtons brought him home just for the weekend over
several weeks at first, then permanently added George to the family in January.
They’re grateful the fully trained animal was donated by the Service Dog
Project.
Bella weighs 44 pounds and stands 43 inches tall. Soon, she
put away the crutches and began to walk, with the help of her furry 131-pound
friend. With her height, the dog’s back is right by her armpit, providing lots
of stability.
“She leans on him for support like she would if she used one crutch. But it’s much more exciting when it’s a dog than a crutch,” Burton said.
George goes everywhere Bella goes. He spends the day
with her at school, where he walks her from class to class and patiently lies
in a bed right next to her desk. He doesn’t bark or demand to go outside,
Burton said. The other kids are used to his presence and know they can’t pet
him because he’s there to work.
George is also a comfort during Bella’s medical
appointments, including a weekly six-hour infusion of a medicine that gives her
more energy.
“At first, he did not like it when she would get her IV put
in. He would want to get up and protect her. But then he realized it had to be
done,” Burton said.
At night, he climbs into bed with the little girl, often
sleeping beside her.
For Bella, George is not just her crutch, he's become her
best friend too.
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