Canine-assisted occupational therapy for children on the autism spectrum has been proposed as a means of enhancing goal-directed interventions, yet there remain no clear guidelines of its safe and ethical practice.
Critical reflection on practice:
Introducing a therapy dog into occupational therapy practices with children on the autism spectrum was found to require a complex and multifaceted set of skills requiring additional training to support the safety and wellbeing of both the client and the therapy dog.
Implications for practice:
Canine-assisted occupational therapy with children on the autism spectrum requires clear practice guidelines, as well as continuing professional development opportunities.
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Manuscript submitted for publication, available from the author.
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