When you meet Bougatsa, or “Boo” as she’s affectionately called, it’s hard not to marvel at her bond with Alexa. A service dog trained by 4 Paws for Ability, Boo is more than a companion, she’s a lifeline.
Alexa’s journey with Boo began after they were introduced to 4 Paws for Ability through a friend who had a seizure alert dog. “We were amazed,” Alexa’s mother recalls. From that moment, it was clear that a service dog could be the answer to some of the challenges Alexa faced.
When Boo came into their lives, everything changed.
“Joy and happiness! Alexa was all smiles. I was so excited to see her so happy,” her mom shares. Boo isn’t just a service dog; she’s Alexa’s constant source of comfort, providing mobility assistance, seizure alerts, and even helping with daily tasks like removing socks (one of Boo’s favorite jobs!).
With Boo by her side since 2021, Alexa’s confidence has blossomed. “They are the best of buddies,” her mother proudly says. “She doesn’t feel lonely anymore because Boo is always there. Alexa loves being a dog mom.”
One of the biggest changes has been Alexa’s newfound sense of privacy and independence. For a teenager, these things are essential, and Boo makes them possible. “We no longer need to worry we’ll miss Alexa seizing. Boo always alerts us if something is wrong by barking,” her mom explains. Now, Alexa can safely close her door, enjoy her space, and have the freedom she’s always wanted.
Even Alexa says her favorite task is “Boo doing seizure alert because now I can close my door!”
A few years ago, Alexa underwent brain surgery, which left her left arm paralyzed. Boo was there, in the ICU, offering support in the most heartwarming way. “Boo would stick her nose under Alexa’s left hand, trying to get her to move it,” her mom recalls. Day after day, Boo persisted, eventually rolling a ball to Alexa with her nose. “Alexa would roll it back with her left hand. They called it ‘nose soccer.’”
In those moments, Boo became more than a helper, she became Alexa’s teammate in recovery, cheering her on with every wag of her tail.
Boo’s impact extends beyond just Alexa. She was the first service dog to attend Alexa’s school, and she quickly became a beloved presence. “We are extremely proud,” her mom says, reflecting on how Boo has not only helped Alexa but touched the hearts of so many others.
“Boo helps Alexa every day, and in turn, she helps bring our whole family a better quality of life.” Together, Alexa and Bougatsa faced challenges, celebrated victories, and found a sense of peace. For Alexa’s family, Boo has brought something priceless: hope.