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6th grader from West Jordan to get service dog

Posted at 11:22 PM, Aug 28, 2012
and last updated 2012-08-29 01:50:02-04

WEST JORDAN -- A 10-year-old boy confined to a wheelchair will soon have a new a four-legged friend to help him out.

Carter Velvedere is your typical 6th grader. He loves learning, his family, and has big dreams for the future. But he recognizes he has limitations due to being born with type 11 spinal muscular atrophy.

While his family has looked into buying a service dog, the expense was a major hurdle. But now the Velvedere family will not have to pay a dime.

Smith’s Food and Drug, along with Milk Bone, are partnering with Canine Assistants to give Carter his own service dog.

Family, friends and Carter's entire 6th grade class turned out for the announcement Tuesday. Carter’s dog has yet to be selected and will be specially matched to make sure the animal is not just a helper, but truly a friend.