Parent perspectives:The value of trained dogs in animal assisted therapy for children and adolescents with Autism Spectrum Disorder

Abstract

Dogs may elicit positive therapy outcomes for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Despite growing research into Animal Assisted Therapy (AAT) for ASD, the parent perspective has not yet been fully engaged. This study aimed to explore parent perspectives regarding AAT. Sixteen semi-structured interviews were conducted with parents following their child's completion of an AAT program. Thematic analysis, line by line coding and consensus theme refinement were used for data analysis. Three themes emerged. Parents valued that the dogs supported their child: stress and anxiety management; engagement and participation; and social-communication. Parents valued the dogs as having a calming effect that facilitated child participation in several life-skill activities and social-communication. Future studies should investigate how best to target AAT with dogs for children with ASD.