Dogs make adorable and loyal pets. They can brighten up your darkest days and shower you with doggy love and affection. However, service dogs are much more than just companions. These pups can save lives in more ways than one.
Andrew “AJ” Schalk is a 16-year-old with Type 1 diabetes. He has a service dog named Alpha, who has been trained to detect and warn him if his blood sugar is too high or too low. Last year, Alpha started going to school with AJ just like any regular student. When it was time for them to have their photos taken for the yearbook, everyone in school agreed that Alpha should be featured too.
Meet AJ and his service dog, Alpha.
AJ Schalk
Alpha warns AJ whenever his blood sugar is too high or too low.
AJ Schalk
They’ve been there for each other for a long time.
AJ Schalk
Last year, Alpha started accompanying him to school.
AJ Schalk
He was in school regularly and was even given his own ID.
AJ Schalk
It’s no surprise then that he was also included in the school yearbook.
Many were surprised to see his photo in the yearbook.
AJ Schalk
The photo went viral on Twitter and people are in love with this service dog.
AJ Schalk
(via LittleThings)
Alpha and AJ have been there for each other through thick and thin. The fact that the school included Alpha in the yearbook is a sign that he’s definitely accepted in school as one of the best.
