Physical defects are difficult to come to terms with, especially for kids. However, knowing that they are not alone helps many individuals feel better about themselves. When considering support others can offer, most people picture other humans. But what about a dog?
A French bulldog, Lentil, is helping kids with facial defects feel better about themselves. Lentil was born with a severe, double sided cleft in his hard and soft palate, lip and nose. Since the hard palate cleft increased the dog's risk of infection and aspiration risk (food could go down his windpipe), surgeons closed his hard palate. Since the soft palate is mainly cosmetic and dogs do not feel self-conscious in the way that humans do, surgeons decided to leave it as it was.
One of Lentil's surgeons, Dr. John Lewis, later realized that Lentil had an opportunity to make an impact. A program was created that connected canines and people with cranial and facial deformities. Now Lentil and other dogs meet with individuals with facial defects. CNN has chronicled Lentil's impact and how people are able to connect with him. Danny Pfeiffer, a boy suffering with Saethre-Chotzen syndrome, said that seeing how Lentil does not look like a regular dog but is special in his own way has helped him.
As Lentil continues to travel and meet with people struggling with deformities, it is becoming clear that the impact one dog can have on the world is remarkable. Connecting with another individual, whether human or canine, can allow someone to feel supported.
References: http://www.cbsnews.com/8301-204_162-57592466/french-bulldog-with-cleft-lip-helps-kids-be-okay-with-facial-defects/
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