Individuals diagnosed with autism tend to isolate themselves and stay away from social interaction. Studies then revealed that pet ownership among individuals diagnosed with autism paves way for them to develop social interaction.
4 Paws for Ability featured a viral story of a 5-year-old boy with autism and his service dog. It was shared that the organization provided a service dog for Shanna Niehaus' son, who was diagnosed with autism. She mentioned that her son was diagnosed with autism and he tends to isolate himself from social interaction. Niehaus also added that her son does not want and highly avoids physical interaction such as hugs and cuddles.
Shanna Niehaus then shared that 4 Paw For Ability provided her son with a service dog named Tornado. Weeks after Tornado paired with Sharon's son, remarkable changed were seen as the 5-year-old boy, who was once aloof when it comes to cuddles, is now comfortable cuddling and hugging Tornado.
"See this moment? I've never experienced a moment like this," Shanna Niehaus stated on her Facebook post. "This picture captures the face of a mother who saw her child, who she can't hug, wash, dress, snuggle, and touch freely lay on his new Service dog of his own free will, with a purposeful, unspoken attachment."
4 Paws for Ability then mentioned that providing a service dog children with special needs is part of their vision. Service dogs do not only motivate social interaction but they help the child cope with stress, anxiety and daily routine as well.
Autism Awareness also pointed out the benefits of pets for children with autism. A study published in the Journal of Pediatric Nursing mentioned that children diagnosed with autism tend to have a strong connection with their dog, enhancing their social interaction. It was then mentioned that dogs provide a positive outlook for children with autism as it eases their anxiety and anti-social behavior.
