ASSISTANCE DOGS PROGRAMME FOR FAMILIES OF CHILDREN WITH AUTISM
This was a breakthrough programme, when launched in 2005 and was the first of its kind in Europe.
An Assistance Dog is the same breed, age and temperament as a guide dog. It is trained specially to work with an autistic child and his or her family. Training for parents takes place at our National Headquarters and Training Centre followed by an aftercare programme once they have returned home.
Applications are generally taken from children up to 8 years of age where the primary diagnosis is autism.
Applications can only be considered for children up to a maximum of 8 years of age, as training children over the age of 10 is not generally successful due to the strength of the child, and due to the fact that our current waiting list is approximately three years.
The benefits include:
- Increased levels of safety for the child
- Constant companionship improves socialisation and interaction
- Dog calms the child
- Increases independence of child and family
- Reduces stress for child and family in public places
To apply, kindly download our INFO PACK and APPLICATION FORM.
Read some interesting articles about the programme, as featured in our magazine Guidelines, by clicking on the article of your choice below:
2005 - 1st class for pilot of Assistance Dogs class.
2005 - Pilot project makes progress.
2007 - Two years of success for our Assistance Dogs.
2007 - Spain says 'Hola' to Assistance Dog Clive.
2009 - Assistance Dogs in the spotlight.
