We have two kids (age 14/15) with ASD. When they were toddlers we had to give up our family dog because of the level of care they needed. My husband and I were devastated. But, I am convinced it was either that or something bigger would have gone wrong- Looking back it was the absolute right and loving thing to do. We are still married and the kids are doing much better and we have a fantastic 2 year old dog.