Dogs are known as ‘man’s best friend’ but for Kirsty and her 11-year-old son Charlie, their dog Bailey is more than that – he’s their lifeline to the outside world.

Charlie suffers from severe autism and for seven years leaving the house was a nightmare.

Charlie - who hasn't spoken since he was two - would have emotional fits, triggered by anything as mundane as a bus driving by. He'd lie on the ground screaming and band his head against the pavement.

But amazingly, since Bailey’s arrival a year ago, Charlie can not only cope with every day trips, he enjoys taking his Labrador-cross-Retriever out for walks.

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Kirsty, 40, who lives in Leeds and is Charlie’s full time carer, explains: “Bailey has changed our lives. I used to dread going out.

"I’d often end up sobbing because people would make rude remarks about Charlie’s behaviour. Sometimes we had to go out to the shops or doctors and I’d strap Charlie into a wheelchair.

"Other times I’d struggle to get him out of the house with him screaming and sobbing. It was heartbreaking. I can’t believe the difference Bailey’s made.

"His presence gives Charlie confidence and calms him. We can pop to the shops or go out for walks for hours. Bailey’s transformed our lives.”

Read the full story in Closer magazine out today