Companion Angels on a Leash: Welcoming Service Dogs Into Classroom Communities for Children With Autism. Issue 4 (3rd July 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Harris, Kathleen I.; Sholtis, Stephanie D.
• Is Part Of: Childhood education. Volume 92:Issue 4(2016)
• Page Start: 263
• Page End: 275
• Publication Date: 2016-07-03
• Subjects: Education -- Periodicals; Kindergarten -- Periodicals; Child Psychology -- Periodicals; Education -- Periodicals; Éducation -- Périodiques; Jardins d'enfants -- Périodiques; 372.05
• DOI: 10.1080/00094056.2016.1208003
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0009-4056

Abstract

Abstract : Love, affection, acceptance, and companionship to children, these are just some of the benefits of a service dog for children. Yet there is much that these remarkable animals can do. From opening doors for children with cerebral palsy to warning a child with diabetes of low blood sugar, the abilities of a properly trained service dog are wide and varied. As explored in this article, service dogs can be especially beneficial in improving the educational experience of children with special needs, such as autism, by calming them when they experience anxiety, redirecting harmful behaviors, and generally increasing their independence. They can also help develop character traits, such as generosity, responsibility, empathy, and patience, that can be applied to human relationships in the classroom and beyond. Although service dogs are not pets—they are working animals—their role in improving the lives of children with autism and other disabilities puts them in a category that is all their own.