Autism

Helping children living with autism unlock their full potential.

Overview

Autism affects 1 in 150 Australian children. An Assistance Dog can provide support in many ways where other forms of therapy may not be as effective. Through the confidence of having an Assistance Dog by their side, children living with autism show drastic improvement in their social, verbal and cognitive skills.

Learn more about our autism Assistance Dog program

Claudia and Noah

Autism Assistance Dog

Things that many of us take for granted such as a trip to the shops can be difficult for families living with autism. With an Assistance Dog by their side, these outings can shift from being major victories to regular occurrences.

Characteristics of a Quality Assistance Dog

Assistance Dogs are intelligent and have a strong work ethic that allows them to learn 50 cues that allow them to offer both practical and emotional support to their client. Most importantly though is the loving bond they form with their client. Always by their side, ready to take on what each day holds.

Training & Advanced skills

Through their advanced training, our dogs learn a variety of skills to help their clients with their day-to-day lives. They can help reduce anxiety by offering physical contact when needed, or help a child’s cognitive development by patiently helping them learn at their own pace.

How our dogs help those living with autism

Reduce Anxiety

Assistance dogs can sense when their clients anxiety is spiking and will use a range of skills to help ground them.

Stop Meltdowns

For many children living with autism, something as simple as going to the shops can be incredibly overwhelming. Assistance Dogs can help redirect the child’s focus from the world around them, helping reduce those anxious feelings.

Improve Social and Communication Skills

An ever-present friend with endless patience, an Assistance Dog lets a child living with autism develop at their own pace.

Noah's Story

success story

“We now have so much hope for the future with Claudia in it, and during bad times we hold onto that hope. It sees us through that day. From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for changing the lives of families like ours. Your generosity is a gift of hope and love, in the form of an amazing dog.” – Kate, Noah’s mum

Some of our autism assistance dogs

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Become a Puppy Educator

As a Puppy Volunteer, you will witness some of the most precious (and heart-melting) moments in your puppy’s life. Join a passionate community, enjoy puppy cuddles, and feel rewarded. This could be one of the best things you’ve ever done.

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