Mans best friend is changing the life of a 7 year-old Chicopee boy. Kita isn't your average dog. Though she catches balls and loves treats, she also has a nose for sensing when Adam Byczko needs help.

"She was trained in scent discrimination," explained Sue Byczko, Adam's mother. Adam is diagnosed with Fragile X Syndrome. He has limited speech, autistic tendencies, and two years ago, began having seizures. Kita is here to help that. "If in fact he has a seizure, Kita is trained to alert me. Whether its in the middle of the night or in the afternoon. She also helps Adam with mobility, helping him walk up and down stairs and she's there for him to lean on," said Byczko.

Kita came from "4 Paws for Ability," an organization based in Ohio. They train and place service dogs with children in need. Sue had to raise nearly $10,000 to get Kita. But with outpouring from the community and fund-raisers organized by places like Dave's Soda and Pet City, they raised more than they needed. "The community raised about $12,000. The remaining money went to a child who had trouble raising funds for his own service dog."

Kita provides more than just physical support, but emotional as well. "She has brought me peace of mind. Just knowing she's there for Adam," said Byczko. Adam and Kita still have to get used to each other, but Sue Byczko knows they'll be best friends.