n 1999, the ASA began work with Rupert Isaacson, father of an autistic son and author of "The Horse Boy" to promote autism awareness. "The Horse Boy is a wonderful book that encourages families affected by autism to dare to dream of a better quality of life, even when things seem hopeless," said ASA President and CEO Lee Grossman.

The AZA release explains when his son Rowan was diagnosed with autism, Isaacson was devastated. No matter which doctors they saw or therapies they tried, Rowan could not connect with the people around him. But Rowan could connect with animals, in particular a neighbor's horse. Inspired by his son's progress, Isaacson pursued the dream literally to the ends of the earth for a chance to heal Rowan and his family.

Race horse trainer John Shirreffs has seen the positive effects horses can have on autistic children as well. In a recent Santa Anita release, Sherrifs says thoroughbred Zenyatta, an undefeated 6-year-old mare, has "evolved into something much bigger than we ever imagined."

"That's what I tell people," Shirreffs continues. Among her qualities are patience and understanding. Jack, a 5-year-old boy with autism, became one of Zenyatta's biggest fans. "Jack zeros in on Zenyatta… He doesn't know how to pet her, but he wants to touch her, so he takes his finger and goes like this (poking gesture), and then starts screaming really loud to express his happiness. Zenyatta didn't even flinch."

Jack's father, Grant Hays recalls, "He was extremely happy during the visit. We haven't seen that much joy in him, ever. It was truly miraculous, and when we got home, he was more focused than he's ever been. He was just tuned into our family like never before. We just can't thank John enough. He was so genuine and kind to my son."

HAVE YOUR AUTISTIC CHILD VIEW THIS VIDEO AND WATCH HIS REACTION