Like many 17-year-olds, Cole Gottlieb has plenty of interests competing for his attention.
He follows WWE wrestling, enjoys spending time with family and friends, plays Miracle League and Challenger baseball, and stays active in the community through organizations including Clinics Can Help and Bella's Angels. He has modeled in national campaigns, and rarely turns down an opportunity to meet someone new.
And wherever Cole goes, Boone is usually close behind.
The 10-year-old black Labrador-Golden Retriever mix has been part of Cole's life for nearly a decade. As a service dog provided through Canine Companions, Boone helps Cole with daily tasks, retrieves items when needed, and provides support throughout the day. But to Cole and his family, Boone is much more than a service dog.
He's a best friend.
Cole was diagnosed with spastic quadriplegic cerebral palsy as a young child, which affects his mobility and requires him to use a wheelchair and other assistive devices. When Cole was seven years old, the family applied for a service dog through Canine Companions, hoping to provide him with additional support and independence.
"What we received was so much more," his mother, Jen Gottlieb says.
From the beginning, Boone and Cole formed an immediate connection. Over the years, that relationship has grown alongside them.
While Boone is trained to retrieve items and assist with daily activities as needed, his greatest contribution may be the confidence and comfort he provides simply by being there. Whether they're attending a community event, spending time with friends, or enjoying a family outing, Boone is a familiar presence at Cole's side.
"The bond between Cole and Boone is something truly special," Adam and Jen say. "They have grown up together, sharing countless adventures, milestones, and everyday moments."
Boone has also helped create opportunities for connection. People are naturally drawn to dogs, and conversations that begin with Boone often become opportunities to get to know Cole.
"Boone helps put people at ease and encourages them to engage with Cole," his parents explain. "He helps foster inclusion and meaningful social interactions."
That spirit of inclusion is something Cole champions through his advocacy work. Whether volunteering with local organizations or sharing his experiences with others, he hopes people look beyond a diagnosis.
"We want others to understand that individuals with special needs have the same hopes, interests, talents, and dreams as everyone else."
It is a message Cole lives every day.
For the Gottlieb family, Boone's impact reaches far beyond the tasks he performs.
"Service dogs do far more than perform tasks," Adam and Jen say. "For children with disabilities, they can open doors to experiences and connections that might otherwise be difficult, while bringing joy and comfort not only to the child but to the entire family."
Nearly ten years after they first met, Cole and Boone continue to move through life together—sharing adventures, making memories, and proving that some of the most meaningful friendships are the ones that grow up alongside us.
We want others to understand that individuals with special needs have the same hopes, interests, talents, and dreams as everyone else.