Service dogs helpful for kids with autism, research shows
Having a furry friend can add joy and companionship to anyone’s life, but for children with autism, it can be truly transformative. A recent study conducted by the University of Arizona College of Veterinary Medicine explored the impact of service dogs on autistic children and their caregivers in 75 families. Partnering with the nonprofit service dog provider Canine Companions, the researchers discovered that having a service dog was correlated with significantly improved sleep behaviors in children with autism, including reduced sleep anxiety and better sleep initiation and duration.
Lead researcher Dr. Maggie O’Haire, the associate dean of research at the university, explained that the inspiration for the study stemmed from the rise of programs that pair service dogs with autistic children. The positive changes in sleep patterns observed in the children were particularly significant for both the child and their family. The presence of a service dog allowed children to sleep more independently in their own rooms and provided a source of comfort and calmness, reducing anxiety and helping them fall back asleep if they woke up during the night.
Families also reported experiencing reduced stigma and judgment, as well as making more positive social connections when out in public with a service dog. The benefits of having a service dog were not limited to the children with autism but extended to their caregivers as well.
One such family that has experienced the life-changing impact of a service dog is the Harpell-Franz family from Washington. Amanda Harpell-Franz’s 7-year-old son, Evan, who has autism, has thrived since welcoming his service dog, Kalvin, into their lives. Evan, who also has hemiplegic cerebral palsy, faced challenges in social settings before Kalvin came along. However, since Kalvin joined the family, Evan has been attending school and extracurricular activities consistently and without struggle.
Kalvin, a lab and golden retriever mix, has become an integral part of Evan’s life, providing comfort, support, and companionship. Kalvin’s presence has helped Evan sleep better, with the physical pressure from the dog aiding in promoting restful sleep. Additionally, Kalvin is trained to apply deep pressure when needed, providing a calming effect for Evan in various situations.
Theadora Block, research program manager at Canine Companions, highlighted how service dogs are specially trained to meet the specific needs of each family. These dogs, primarily labs, golden retrievers, or a mix of the two, are known for their calm and stable demeanor, as well as their love for interacting with humans. Block encouraged those interested in getting a service dog to sign up, as the wait for placement can be up to two years.
While the benefits of service dogs for children with autism are clear, more research is needed to further understand how these amazing animals can support families facing unique challenges. Dr. O’Haire stressed the importance of gathering evidence to advocate for policy changes and insurance support to ensure that more families can benefit from the incredible bond between service dogs and children with autism.
In conclusion, the impact of service dogs on children with autism goes beyond providing companionship – it can truly be life-changing. These furry friends offer comfort, support, and a sense of security, helping children navigate the world with more ease and confidence. As more research is conducted and awareness is raised, the potential for service dogs to make a positive difference in the lives of children with autism and their families is limitless.
