Four service dogs selected by artist Sam Allen to feature in a mural at Memorial Park has prompted the Weekend Sun to run a series of six Service Dog Mural stories. Today’s fifth story in the segment is about Harry Ward and his dog Kōwhai.

For 7-year-old Harry Ward and his family, Kōwhai is much more than a companion – she is a lifeline.

Harry lives with congenital myasthenia, a rare neuromuscular condition that affects the body’s ability to produce acetylcholine, the chemical responsible for sending messages from the brain to the muscles. Harry can suddenly stop breathing, requiring immediate support from a ventilator.

Seven-year-old Harry Ward (in centre) with his father Ben Ward and brother James. Photo / Nicholas Charles

The Matua boy’s early years were marked by long hospital stays and constant vigilance.

On edge

“The first two years of Harry’s life were spent mostly in hospital, and the next two largely at home as we learned how to manage his condition,” said his mother Natasha Ward. “It was a really challenging time. We were always on edge, watching his breathing and ready to act at any moment.”

When Harry was aged 2 his parents decided to apply for an assistance dog.

“We didn’t really believe it would happen,” Ward said. “We knew how in demand they are and how much training is involved.”

That changed in 2023, when Kōwhai, a golden labrador, entered their lives.

Seven-year-old Harry Ward with his assistance dog Kōwhai. Photo / Nicholas Charles

Trained through the Assistance Dogs New Zealand Trust, Kōwhai has transformed not only Harry’s daily routine, but the entire family’s ability to engage with the world around them.

“She has an extraordinary calming effect on him,” Ward said. “Her assistance in helping Harry self-manage his condition is beyond what we ever thought possible.”

Kōwhai is trained to recognise when Harry is becoming fatigued. She gently nudges him behind the knees to prompt him to sit down, helping prevent potentially dangerous episodes.

When he needs reassurance, she provides what’s known as “deep pressure” by resting her chin on his legs.

Assistance dog Kōwhai keeps Harry Ward company while he breathes. Photo /Supplied

“If he feels his body starting to tire, he’ll go and sit with Kōwhai until he’s ‘recharged’,” Ward said.

Beyond physical

The impact goes beyond physical safety. Kōwhai had also helped Harry navigate the emotional challenges of living with a condition that sets him apart from other children.

“He often needs to use his ventilator in public, which can be hard for a young child,” Ward said. “But with Kōwhai beside him, he feels more confident and calm.”

Kōwhai is never far from Harry’s side – whether she’s watching him play quietly, retrieving his medical bag when needed, or simply offering companionship.

“She gives him unconditional love and friendship. When he needs quiet time, she’ll just sit and watch him play for hours. He’s never alone.”

Harry Ward at the mural photo shoot with his assistance dog Kōwhai. Photo / Nicholas Charles

Harry’s experience with Kōwhai had also strengthened his connection with others. At a recent photoshoot for the mural, he was thrilled to meet other working dogs and their owners.

“He was buzzing afterwards,” Ward said. “He loved hearing about the different jobs the dogs do and meeting people who understand his world.”

The opportunity to be part of the mural came through connections with his school and community, and the family says it’s an honour to be included.

Gratitude

For Harry’s mother, the artwork represented not just awareness, but gratitude.

“Having Kōwhai in our lives helps us all stay connected, calm, grounded and positive,” she said. “We will be forever grateful.”