Interest is growing in the possible value and benefit of assistance animals for children diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). One of the features of autistic disorders is the alteration of social interactions especially prosocial behaviors (which are an essential aspect of development). Several strategies or therapies are used to improve communication skills. One innovative approach is the incorporation of animal-assisted intervention.
Some studies have shown that animal-assisted intervention can help improve multiple areas known to be deficient in autism spectrum disorder. For example, some reports demonstrate that animal-assisted intervention can help increase social interaction and communication, decrease problem behaviors, and reduce stress. For instance, introducing a pet (dog, cat or hamster) to children with autism spectrum disorder was associated with an increase in the children’s social behaviors, as compared with children lacking a pet.
Another research study proposed that a cat that can be held by a child could provide crucial therapeutic companionship for children with autism spectrum disorder who otherwise may lack prosocial behaviors. Interestingly, the cats exhibited affectionate behavior and very low levels of aggression with the children. Also, the children were very attracted to the cats, highlighting the value of selecting well-socialized cats for autistic children.
Children with autism spectrum disorder might display unpredictable and volatile behavior that could potentially result in considerable physical danger and can generate stress for the family. Families with an autistic child and a service dog report the following experiences with a service dog:
🐾 The service dog helped by assuring safety by keeping the child from bolting and running away
🐾 The service dog facilitated or gave a sense of freedom through enhanced safety, facilitating public outings and family activities
🐾 Having the service dog, improved social recognition and status, in which the presence of the dog promoted awareness of autism and affected social interactions.
🐾 Service dogs have been shown to decrease cortisol secretion (the stress hormone) upon awakening in children with autism spectrum disorder. Also, parents reported improvements in the behavior of the child when having a service dog.
The impact of animal-assisted activities or animal-assisted therapy programs in the lives of children with autism seems to be extremely positive not only for the child but also the rest of the family members. Please note that this type of intervention is not meant for everyone. Also, if the child does not like dogs, maybe considering another animal might be more appropriate. It is crucial to select an animal that is a good match for the child and the family.
Below is a video including footage of an amazing dog named, Ricochet, interacting and surfing with a young boy named West who has autism. To learn more about Ricochet, Cori and Puppy Prodigies, go to http://www.surfdogricochet.com.
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