Michael Kopcha cuddles a golden retriever, Brody, at his home in Niskayuna. If you see the two, it looks like they’ve been together for a lifetime, but they have only just met.

“People can sometimes be unkind and dogs aren’t unkind,” Michael’s mom, Ruthann Kopcha, explained.

Michael is on the autism spectrum. When the pandemic hit, the change in the 10-year-old’s routine made it incredibly difficult for him to adjust to his new life at home.

“He’s struggling with the unknown, the inconsistencies,” said Ruthann.

It’s been even harder for his mom, who has another child at home to care for, along with Michael. Ruthann says Michael’s sensory sensitivities prevent him from wearing masks and from going into large public places, like the grocery store.

“When they’re at school, everything is very structured. As a mom, it’s impossible to do that at home,” explained Ruthann.

However, the pandemic took away the one thing Michael loved the most, animals. Michael enjoys going for walks and petting dogs along their route. However, social distancing has stopped that, and Michael can’t understand why.

“It’s been a really huge struggle for him because he can’t comprehend why he can no longer pet people’s dogs,” she said.

But, that’s where Brody comes in. He’s a rescue golden retriever, owned by Lori Todd.

“We’re all going through tough times and I thought 'all of these people ranting and raving online.' I thought there are other people going through much worse,” said Todd.

People like Ruthann came to mind, explained the dog owner. She admires Ruthann’s dedication and selflessness to make sure her kids stay safe.

“I don’t think she’s slept in a bed in four or five years because she’s so worried Michael’s going to get up in the middle of the night or leave the house in the middle of the night,” said Todd.

That is why Todd ultimately wanted to help the family out. The families met over a Facebook post, and Todd knew Brody would be the perfect fit to meet Michael.

“I said 'oh my gosh, this big love bug would love and be perfect,' because he’s so gentle and kind,” she added.

When the two finally met, it was an instant bond.

“Brody does not judge Michael for anything. Brody loves Michael for Michael, and Michael loves Brody for Brody,” said Ruthann.

“They just seem like they’ve connected. There seems to be a very very strange connection even though they never met each other it’s very sweet,” added Todd.

Michael’s excited to tell everyone at school about his new friend, writing a note about him for an assignment at school. Michael gave It to Todd so Brody could take it home with him.

“He doesn’t have to say anything at all. He can talk in his own way, and I think Brody knows exactly what Michael needs,” said Kopcha.

The two wait anxiously to meet, even if It’s just for a few hours every week. Their playdates will continue long after the COVID-19 pandemic is over.

Todd is asking for teachers or therapists willing to provide extra attention or help for Michael and his mom while school is out of the classroom.