Could Kids With Autism Benefit From Therapy Dogs?
Specially trained dogs are now helping children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) overcome the challenges that their condition brings, and gain success and independence. In a comprehensive review published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine that involved several published studies, researchers evaluated the potential benefits of therapy dogs to ASD sufferers.
It is estimated that one in 150 children suffers from autism spectrum disorder – a group of neurodevelopmental disorders characterised by problems in communication, language, and social interaction. While there is no known cure for autism, treatment options include the use of medications, early intervention, behaviour and communication approaches, dietary approaches, and the complementary or alternative therapies.
At present, therapy dogs are gaining popularity in the treatment of children with ASD.
Based on the analysis of published studies, researchers from Superior Health Institute, Rome, Italy, found that the interaction with therapy dogs, or the introduction of an assistance dog into a household with a child suffering from ASD, may help the child build emotional attachments and interaction in a social setting based on simple and predictable patterns, without having to interpret verbal cues. Nevertheless, they emphasised the need for more studies to support their findings.
Claimed Benefits of Therapy Dogs
One of the major roles of a therapy dog is to connect the child to the rest of the world. In a study by the University of Montreal, parents of children with ASD who had therapy dogs reported a reduction in their kids’ disruptive behaviours such as tantrums. They also showed improvements in their ability to interact with others and in the performance of their daily routines.
With the help of therapy dogs, children with ASD can learn:
Independence – the dog acts as an anchor since it is harnessed to the child. As a result, the child is able to walk and move without having to hold her parent’s hand, promoting independence.
Calming effect – in one study, researchers found that children who have a furry friend to assist them in their daily routines feel less pressured than when they are with other people, or on their own. As a result, they show less anger, aggression, and other negative behaviours.
Positive social interactions – kids with ASD become more comfortable communicating with others as they get more practise talking about their furry friends in different situations, another study reports.
Behaviour disruption – because of the calming effects of dogs to children with ASD, these kids learn to nudge away their unpleasant behaviours and become more caring, loving and gentle.
Also known as Animal-Assisted Intervention, this therapy doesn’t only show potential benefits for children with ASD, but also to a large health-related problems in different clinical populations, the review suggests.
Dear Readers,
As a therapist, what do you think about ’therapy dogs’? Do you know of any other great alternative treatments that are effective?
Share your idea’s by commenting below!
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