Using animals for therapy has been in practice for decades, and it’s still a great way to achieve some goals, especially with autistic children. However, not all children like dogs, and this is true of all children, as is the reverse; not all dogs like children, either.
The best pet isn’t always a clear cut answer. Some children have spent their entire lives afraid of, or indifferent to animals, and suddenly one day they’re exposed to someone’s pet rat for the first time and the child instantly bonds with the rodent.
It’s so important that the animal chosen is by the child, as well as the parents. Dogs can easily overwhelm them in their excitement upon someone coming home from school, etc. Farm animals might do the trick, just not predictable.
Chickens Used in Animal Therapy for Autism
Recently in Portland, Oregon, one family tried several times to find a pet for their daughter with ASD, but it wasn’t successful. This particular family happens to have a little backyard farm, and they got a dozen baby chickens to raise to give them eggs. The instant their usually quiet daughter saw the little chicks she quickly bonded to them, talking in very soft, loving tones and being gentle with them.
Now the chickens are grown and a very important part of this little girl’s life and learning. Such a surprise was it to see the chickens allow her to maul them (they didn’t seem to mind it a bit) and then ignore her at just the right times. It just goes to show how unpredictable life with autism can be.
Studies have shown that animals are frequently responsible for lowering blood pressure in children and adults. It’s typical for autistic kids with violent tendencies to suddenly become still and loving, almost nurturing to animals. Animal therapy can also help to reduce lonely feelings and develop personality traits like decision-making, problem solving, language and social skills, as well.