A TORFAEN boy with autism looks set to get a "life changing" support dog within the next six months.

In January, Thornhill parents Paolo Raimondo and Melanie Wood, launched a fundraising campaign to purchase a specially trained dog for their seven-year-old son, Luca.

The support dog would provide the help and support he needs, said his parents who set up their campaign Luca's Paws.

After hitting their £5,000 target, the family have been told that they should have the dog by September.

Mrs Wood said that they reached their target after Joshua Hawkins from Joshua A Hawkins Joinery and Construction gave a cheque of £3,800 that made up the balance.

At two-years-old, Luca was officially diagnosed with high-functioning autism, which affects his communication, expression, and social interaction.

The dog will form a special bond with Luca and will have a calming effect on him when he is distressed.

It will also help distract him away from disruptive or dangerous behaviour.

Miss Wood, 30, said: “Going out to public places can be very stressful for Luca because of his anxieties and sensory difficulties. If Luca becomes anxious or upset when out he will try to run away which is extremely dangerous as he has no safety awareness, and sometimes will kick and even headbutt the floor.

“These anxieties, meltdowns and even his running away can all be helped by an autism support dog. They are able to calm the child down and when out in public places the dog is attached to the child and is trained to stop the child if they try to run away.”

Mr Raimondo, 36, said that the dog would be “life changing” for Luca, and would help at home as his behaviour can be challenging on a daily basis.

It would also help him sleep during the night as he doesn't settle for a long time without someone with him.

Mr Raimondo started the fundraising effort and completed the Boxing Day Fun Run hosted by Griffithstown Harriers in Cwmbran, that raised £350 for the fund.