It became a pioneering journey for the Watson family as there had never been a dog trained in New Zealand to carry oxygen cylinders, and now Mali has entered their lives.
The Kiwi Pride Australian Labradoodle has received 10 months of his 18-month training period, and took a break to hang out with the family he will soon join.
Frankie's father, Ryan Watson said Mali had slotted into the family like he had always been there.
"We have taken him out in public a few times and he has been really well behaved," he said "The training he has received so far has been outstanding."
Ryan said watching Frankie and Mali interact had been really special to see.
"They have bonded so naturally ... having Mali visit has reassured us that we made the right decision."
Securing an assistance dog has meant the family having to raise $20,000 for the cost of Mali's training.
"[His] training is important in this quest to help Frankie grow up as normal as he can be - running, playing outside, enjoying the life we take for granted," said Ryan.
Frankie's mother, Nadia said when she held her newborn son in her arms she felt powerless to help him. He has interstitial lung disease, a rare condition and the only New Zealand child to have it.
"When we started the process of getting an assistance dog for Frankie, it was nice to have hope that there was something I could have control over to make things better for him."
The Watsons have raised almost half of the training cost through a Givealittle page. To help, go to givealittle.co.nz/cause/frankiewatson
