An autism service dog is a specially trained working dog that performs specific tasks for a person with autism. A service dog is different than a therapy or emotional support animal. The American Disability Act ensures legal protections for service animals and their handlers that are not provided for therapy or emotional support animals. Check out the link below for more info.
Benefits of an Autism Service Dog
Anchoring/Tethering
Many children on the spectrum are prone to running away (elopement). A service dog will serve as an anchor to keep your child safe.
Sleeping
Along with being a soothing presence, your service dog can alert you if your child gets out of bed.
Soothing
From interrupting stimming to deep pressure therapy, your service dog can be trained t
Social Benefits
Your child's service animal is a constant presence even in unfamiliar situations
Tracking
If your child wanders, a service dog can be trained to find them
Things to Keep in Mind
Age Limits
Some trainers have age limits, so expect a longer search if you have a younger child. There are trainers that don't have age limits, just keep looking.
Expense
Boarding and training a service dog is costly, but the amount of training varies from person to person. The more skills your service dog needs, the longer his training and the more expensive that training will be. Some trainers have donors that will help offset the price.
Fundraising
If you believe your child can benefit from a service animal, don't let the price deter you. Most trainers will connect you with fundraising opportunities to help offset the cost of your service animal.
Our Story
While researching autism therapies and services for our son, we discovered autism service dogs. Through the generosity of friends, family, and complete strangers, we raised over $14,000 to completely pay for his dog. We are currently in the process of waiting for a dog to come available to enter the training program.
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