The 8-year-old boy's bond with his dog is built on devoted service.

If the boy slips away, the dog has been trained to track him. If he retreats to a corner, the dog will lie by his side. When they're in public, the dog can attract other children the boy can interact with.

Adrian Chavez's dog, Chase, is more than a pet — he's a companion. Adrian's parents, Elsa and Carlos Chavez, hope the 1-year-old goldendoodle will help open up a world of independence for their autistic son.

Two years ago, Carlos learned about Highland Canine Training in North Carolina while searching the Internet for autism assistance dogs. The cost of a trained dog was $10,000, and though it was lower than some of the dogs available elsewhere, it was more than they had.

The family created the Adrian Chavez Benefit Fund to raise the money to buy Chase. They chronicled their journey on a blog called “Paws for Adrian.” Donors of all ages helped them reach their goal along with $1,000 from an anonymous contributor.

“I wish we could thank everyone individually,” she said. “I want to thank the community, family and friends, from the bottom of my heart.”

Adopted at birth, the Chavez's middle son never had a sense of danger. He'd sleep three hours and slip out of the house after midnight, where his parents found him on the front lawn or swinging in the back yard.

They feared that one day Adrian would wander away and never be found. They found relief in Chase, who is true to his name. If Adrian takes off, his companion is in pursuit.

Carlos said Chase isn't a babysitter but a safeguard for their son.

“It's relaxing to know Adrian is more safe,” Carlos said. “He is a lot of help.”

The history of service dogs in the United States goes back to 1929, when they were first trained as guide dogs for the blind, and the mid-'70s, when they were first used as signal dogs to help the hearing-impaired.

Highland training director Jason Purgason said the demand for autism assistance dogs emerged in the past several years. Training ranges from five to six months. The matches involve ongoing phone conversations with the family and an information gathering process.

“There are still a lot of people that don't know it's an option,” Purgason said. “These kids and dogs sleep together and go to school together; the bond that develops is pretty amazing to see.”

In early July the trainers, Purgason's wife, Erin, and Jaime Stuart, arrived with Chase. They stayed a week, getting to know Adrian and his family, and training Chase at his new home and sites around the city. They also helped his sister, Krysta and brother, Christian, train their dogs, Precious and Binky to obey commands.

Before their arrival, the family spent time at outings chasing Adrian. Now, they can enjoy themselves. Adrian can be found with a leash in hand, leading Chase, on the job in a camouflage service vest.

“When he puts the vest on, it's all business,” Carlos said. “He knows; he's ready to work.”