Canine-Assisted Therapies in Autism: A Systematic Review of Published Studies Relevant to Recreational Therapy
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.18666/TRJ-2017-V51-I2-7969Keywords:
animal-assisted, autism, dogs, recreational therapy, systematic reviewAbstract
Recreational therapists and other helping professionals have used animal-assisted therapies in the treatment of multiple psychological and physical issues. In the case of individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), animals have helped with issues ranging from social interaction, to anxiety, to physical balance. While researchers have applied rigorous review methods (including systematic reviews and meta-analyses) to evaluating the efficacy of animal-assisted interventions with various populations, publications detailing such research into canine-specific assisted therapies with individuals with ASD are missing. This review applies Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines to evaluating empirical research on this application of animal-assisted therapy. Intensive searches of health care, psychological, educational, sociological, and other relevant resources yielded a limited number of studies meeting criteria for inclusion in this research. Those studies, however, provide a meaningful window into the efficacy of canine-assisted therapies used with individuals with ASD. A review of these studies that explores what the preponderance of the evidence suggests on this topic should benefit recreational therapy practitioners and their clients.
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