A service dog has many jobs. They are a protector, a helper, and a best friend. One five year old boy is hoping that the community will come together to help make his future a little brighter, by donating towards his very own service dog.

Looking at Joshua Pence you can easily see that he is a fun loving adventurous and happy child.

However, life has not always been so easy for him. Joshua has been diagnosed with many disorders that make day to day living a constant challenge.

As Joshua grows older and the world gets increasingly faster it becomes harder for him to transition and express himself. However, one thing he can express is his love for dogs.

His parents have found an organization called “Four Paws For Ability” that gives trained service dogs to children like Joshua. A service dog would change Joshua’s life for the better. It would protect him, be there for him, and give him independence.

The total amount of a service dog is over twenty-two thousand dollars, but the impact that it will have on Joshua’s life is priceless.

In order for Joshua to qualify for a free service dog the Pence family must first raise fifteen thousand dollars in support of the Four Paws mission.

So far the family has raised seven hundred and fifty dollars. The Pence family is hopeful that once the community hears Joshua’s story the process will go faster. Until then Joshua is patiently waiting to meet his lifelong best friend. If you are interested in learning more about Joshua or would like to donate visit: firstgiving.com/fundraiser/Joshua-Pence-1/dog

By — Lakeland News