Can service dogs help children with autism?

September 18, 2019

As the number of children being diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder continues to rise, so does the demand for a popular treatment – service dogs.

While the number of service dogs being provided for children with autism is growing, there is a lack of scientific evidence on whether, or how, these dogs help. In addition, minimal research has explored how these dogs may help parents – who often face significant stress and challenges of their own. A group of researchers at the Purdue University College of Veterinary Medicine is launching a new study this fall to find out. Read Can service dogs help children with autism? This new study will find out.

Writer(s): Abbey Nickel

Source: Purdue News Service

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