Research Project
in partnership with The National Autistic Society and the University of Lincoln
Anecdotal evidence suggests that owning a pet dog can have a positive impact on children with autism and the family as a whole. Currently there is little information as to what types of interactions with pet dogs result in beneficial effects for children with autism and other family members, what exactly these benefits might be, and whether certain traits (such as breed or age) may make particular pet dogs more effective.
A vital part of our work is to carry out research over the next three years into why dogs affect children with autism and the impact on the family as a whole, so we have formed a partnership with The National Autistic Society and the University of Lincoln’s Department of Biological Sciences to carry out a wide-scale study.
This research will help us provide more detailed guidance for families seeking a pet dog as to exactly what they and their child with autism may expect to gain, what type of dog may be best for their family, and how they can gain the most benefits from their relationship with their pet dog.
PAWS is the first ever project of its kind, so in partnership with The National Autistic Society and the University of Lincoln, we have been awarded a three year grant to carry out this research, funded by The National Lottery through the Big Lottery Fund.
It is hoped that families taking part in PAWS will be keen to contribute to this exciting 3 year research project.
