The Different Conditions Therapy Dogs Help Treat

Autism

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Protection, one in sixty-eight children has been diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder. While it lacks a cure, Autism assistance dogs can be a highly effective tool in helping patients with the condition improve in behavior, communication, social interaction, and emotions. These dogs are generally geared towards children and are mainly trained to expect a situation with a child, but these dogs can also be helpful for adults with Autism as well. Adults and teens who are severely affected may also benefit from a therapy dog, especially if they will be unable to live independently. Some researchers believe that autistic individuals have heightened levels of sensory input. Dogs can be shelters in the storm when the world is too overwhelming. They can also serve as a much-needed friend for the often lonely life of those who are on the Spectrum. Therapy dogs help calm, reduce repetitive motion, and keep their owners from wandering off, as well as being a deeply bonded soul mate. They also motivate engagement and provide confidence for individuals living with this disorder.

Next, find out how a therapy dog can be a vital resource for an individual who suffers from seizures.

Epilepsy

A seizure dog has been trained to respond to seizures in their owners who have epilepsy. Some dogs are seizure alert dogs; these dogs cannot be trained, but instinctively can sense when a seizure is coming. Researchers do not yet understand what it is triggering the dogs. A reaction dog helps its owner once the seizure has begun. They can bark to alert caregivers, activate an alarm, or move in a way that protects the person who is having a seizure. They can lie next to the person to prevent injury, or can put their bodies between the person having a seizure and the floor to break a fall. Emotionally speaking, they are a comforting lifeline to have. This is a scary condition and knowing that a seizure can strike at any time can be stressful. A therapy dog trained to assist with seizures can be a calming best friend, a reassurance that care is at hand.

Continue reading to reveal how a therapy dog can help those who are dealing with coordination problems.