11 Years Old Create a Life-changing Wheelchair for My Teacher’s Rescue Dog

Dana Holden’s Dachshund mix named Leonard is a celebrity among her fifth graders. She has a picture of a senior rescue dog as her screen saver, and the kids get excited every time they see this dog. So Holden arranged a time for the 9-year-old to meet her 11-year-old students.

Of course, every kid loves the little dog, but Leonard has a special place in a child’s heart. Emmett Rychner saw Leonard and immediately began to think of ways he could help the puppy. He decided to build a custom wheelchair for his teacher’s special needs dog.

Leonard’s Mobility Issues

Holden adopted Leonard from a shelter. The large dog has a number of medical issues that cause him to struggle with mobility. He can move his hind legs, but he doesn’t have enough strength in them to support his body.

“They believe some kind of tumor was growing, pushing up his spine,” Holden said. “His leg is not receiving the signal.”

However, Leonard is lovable and approachable despite his health concerns. He lives his life to the fullest, and Holden helps him in any way she can. When Leonard couldn’t get up on his hind legs, he dragged them on the ground behind him. Holden encourages him with treats and affection.

Emmett is an 11-year-old boy who loves to invent new things. He designed a drinking fountain for dogs and an air-conditioned backpack to keep his lunches fresh. So when he met Leonard, gears started spinning in his brain. He knew he could think of a way to help Leonard walk better.

Kid changes the life of the rescue dog!

When Emmett shared his idea with the whole class, they all encouraged him. He started working, but the project ended up being more difficult than he anticipated. His first wheelchair was too short for Leonard’s legs. But instead of giving up, Emmett was more determined to do the right thing.

“Many kids will say they can do something, but to really get it and persevere,” says Holden. “I think he just had an empathy, he had that in him.”

RELATED: Abandoned disabled student receives a Lego wheelchair designed by a 12-year-old boy

After a lot of hard work, Emmett created the perfect wheelchair for Leonard. Holden strapped the dog to his new set of wheels, and when Emmett asked him to come, the dog ran towards him with ease. It was as if Leonard knew the wheel was made for him.

There are many companies that make custom dog wheelchairs, including one that Holden’s vet recommended her. But she believed that Emmett would be able to fulfill his promise, and she was right! Now, Leonard can roam freely thanks to the kindness and innovation of a young boy.

Watch Emmett and Leonard’s Story here:

Featured pictures: YouTube