Therapy Dogs + Behavioral Treatment for Autism
Trial Summary
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial is testing if having a dog in therapy sessions can help children with autism manage their emotions better. It targets kids aged 8 to 15 who struggle with emotional control. The idea is that dogs can make therapy more enjoyable and less stressful, aiding in emotional learning. Using dogs in therapy is a growing practice in autism therapy, often involving dogs to help improve emotional and behavioral outcomes.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial requires that you keep your current medications stable throughout the study, so you won't need to stop taking them.
What data supports the effectiveness of the treatment Regulating Together-Canine for autism?
Is therapy involving dogs safe for children with autism?
Research suggests that therapy dogs can increase safety for children with autism and their families, as well as reduce stress and isolation. However, there is limited specific safety data, and more studies are needed to fully understand the long-term safety and impact of therapy dogs in these interventions.14678
How does the Regulating Together-Canine treatment for autism differ from other treatments?
The Regulating Together-Canine treatment is unique because it incorporates therapy dogs to help improve social communication skills and reduce behavioral problems in children with autism. This approach is different from standard treatments as it uses the presence and interaction with dogs to enhance engagement and therapy outcomes.14569
Research Team
Rebecca Shaffer, Psy.D.
Principal Investigator
Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati
Eligibility Criteria
This trial is for children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) who have issues with emotion regulation, confirmed by specific tests and assessments. They must be on stable medication, have an IQ score of 65 or higher, and speak English as their primary language. Children allergic to dogs, with a fear of canines, history of aggression towards animals or other children causing injury recently are excluded.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Baseline
All outcome measures are completed at Baseline
Treatment
Participants receive either Regulating Together-Canine or Regulating Together-Standard intervention over 10 group sessions
Post-treatment
Outcome measures completed 1-2 weeks following treatment completion
Follow-up
10 week post treatment completion follow up
Long-term Follow-up
6 month post treatment completion follow up
Treatment Details
Interventions
- Regulating Together-Canine
- Regulating Together-Standard
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati
Lead Sponsor