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Anyone found a dog helps?

hibbsy

Hi there,

Just wondered if anyone out there could give us any advice about getting a dog, and whether it had a positive impact on their autistic child? We have two children, a 7yr girl who is not autistic, and an 11yr old son who was diagnosed a couple of months ago with Autism. He also has dyslexia, speech and language problems and severe anxiety disorder which has resulted in him having a breakdown.

We have been advised that a dog could have a positive impact on our son and help him with his many melt downs and severe anxiety issues. We are currently having meetings with PAWS - Parents Autism Workshops which train dogs as therapy dogs and could teach us how to raise a puppy, and then train it for our son's specific needs. It does sound very good but we need to be sure, and know of the pro's and con's involved....and what type of dog?!

Anyone out there that could give us any advise at all, we would really appreciate it.

Thankyou

Parents

  • I'd recommend a labrador or golden retriever, as they're known to be intelligent and calm.

    I have aspergers and I find that having pets (3 cats, one dog, all family pets) are a big help, as they don't judge me and don't mind affection. i.e. the worst my cat does when I hug him at an inappropriate time is sulk, not yell at me or avoid me for days on end like a person would.

    Also, theres been loads of reports on the news about how children can improve in their reading by reading to therapy dogs, as once again the animals don't judge them if they struggle, and the dog also doubles as a best friend and protector. If your son has problems going outside then you could encourage him to walk the dog who will look after your son and hopefully make him feel more confident.

    Best of luck.

Reply

  • I'd recommend a labrador or golden retriever, as they're known to be intelligent and calm.

    I have aspergers and I find that having pets (3 cats, one dog, all family pets) are a big help, as they don't judge me and don't mind affection. i.e. the worst my cat does when I hug him at an inappropriate time is sulk, not yell at me or avoid me for days on end like a person would.

    Also, theres been loads of reports on the news about how children can improve in their reading by reading to therapy dogs, as once again the animals don't judge them if they struggle, and the dog also doubles as a best friend and protector. If your son has problems going outside then you could encourage him to walk the dog who will look after your son and hopefully make him feel more confident.

    Best of luck.

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