Wonder Dog
By Greene, Melissa Fay; New York Times,Publication Date: February 2, 2012
Article discusses the therapeutic benefits of a service dog for children with emotional and cognitive disabilities, including those with autism and fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (F.A.S.D.). The training and provision of service dogs by the nonprofit corporation 4 Paws for Ability is outlined. The organization is reportedly unusual in its efforts to place service dogs with individuals regardless of the severity of their disability. A typical 4 Paws dog is described as a Labrador, golden retriever, or German shepherd who has received 500 hours of training. Basic skills developed include opening and closing doors, removing clothing from drawers, assisting with dressing, and fetching food and drink from the refrigerator. In addition, the dog is trained in so-called “behavior disruption,” which entails interrupting temper tantrums. Before placing a dog with a client with an emotional disability, 4 Paws for Ability will request and view a home video detailing the client’s daily activities and behaviors. The article describes a relationship developed between a boy with F.A.S.D. and his service dog, where the dog would calm the boy during a tantrum by nuzzling and licking him. The dog reportedly is also able to sense when a tantrum is imminent and calm the boy by playfully knocking him down and stretching out beside him. According to the article, interaction with the dog has resulted in the boy’s increased use of vocabulary, improved decision making ability, some mood self-regulation, and a heightened understanding of other people’s points of view, so-called “theory of mind.”
Published by: New York Times Company (Website:http://www.nytco.com)
Link to text: http://www.nytimes.com/2012/02/05/magazine/wonder-dog.html?src=me&ref=general
