HAUPPAUGE, N.Y. – A dog sponsored by People's Alliance Federal Credit Union is more than just a best friend for nine year-old Nicholas Connors but a real help. Connors, who has Cerebral Palsy and a seizure disorder, frequently drops items and is unable to pick them up because of the braces he wears on his legs. It is also difficult for him to perform many common everyday tasks. Enter his Canine Assistant Special Educator dog who was taught 90 different commands including opening doors, turning on lights and retrieving dropped objects. PAFCU President/CEO Nicholas M. Lacetera, and his wife Cookie are familiar with the program as their Canine Assistants Special Educator dog Miller, participates in animal assisted therapy, disability awareness education programs, and K-9 Kids reading programs for kids at risk throughout Long Island. The sponsorship, which costs $15,500, covers the in-depth training, ongoing support and veterinarian care of Connors' dog. Canine Assistants is an Alpharetta, Georgia-based non-profit organization that trains dogs to work with children and adults who have physical disabilities.