People reported in 2025 that Kuma, a black Labrador service dog, helped Rosie O’Donnell’s autistic child Clay leave isolation through errands, meals, walks and calmer connection.

United States / Ireland; Guide Dogs of America service-dog program

Story

Before Kuma, People reported that Clay rarely wanted to leave home or communicate; O’Donnell feared the isolation was deepening.

Kuma gave the family practical reasons and emotional support for errands, meals, walks and conversation, while remaining a service dog rather than a miracle cure.

The archive keeps Kuma because the story shows how trained service dogs can open everyday life for autistic children and their families.

Sources

• People report
• ABC7 documentary report
• Guide Dogs of America program page