Boy scared of going outside is cured by three-legged dog

Owen Howkins, suffering from a rare genetic disorder, was too afraid to leave his house until his family adopted the Anatolian Shepherd.

Owen had become withdrawn from social situations when he realised that he was different from other boys and girls at school.

The condition, known as Schwartz-Jampel, causes his muscles to be permanently tense.

It left him scared to talk to people and worried about leaving his home in Basingstoke, Hants.

When his family adopted Haatchi, they were thrilled with the positive effect he had on Owen's confidence.

As well as leaving the house to take his dog for walks, Owen is now happy to talk to strangers