AUTISM ASSISTANCE DOGS
Due to the high volume of applicants, we are currently not accepting new applications. We expect to re-open the application process in 2025. Thank you for your interest in our program.
Key Benefits of Autism Assistance Dogs
- Safety and Comfort: Perform tasks such as applying deep pressure, designed to reduce anxiety and emotional meltdowns and foster more manageable bedtimes.
- Confidence: Aid in transitions by guiding the child through changes in environment or routine and providing tactile cues to foster independence and enhance engagement in daily activities.
- Companionship: Offers a steady and reassuring presence, serving as both a friend and helper to the child.
- Support in Public Settings: Perform essential skills that maintain the child’s focus despite distractions in public settings. Autism Assistance Dogs can accompany their child and trained facilitator to most daily activities, with the exception of school.
Capabilities and Skills
Autism Assistance Dogs are trained to perform tasks that enhance daily life and support children with Autism, including:
- Deep Pressure: trained specific behaviors that provide deep pressure to reduce anxiety and promote relaxation.
- Therapeutic Support: Encourages participation in therapies and fosters communication skills.
- Redirection: Helps redirect attention or ease transitions during challenging moments.
- Social Bridging: Creates opportunities for the child to develop relationships and build friendships.
Every Autism Assistance Dog placement is personalized to meet the unique needs of the child and their family, ensuring the highest level of support.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for an Autism Assistance Dog, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Have a child between the ages of 4-12 with an Autism diagnosis.
- Applicants must need a dog for a minimum of three skills to be used in home, and one skill in public.
- Reside in one of the following states: California, Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New York, Oregon, Rhode Island, Vermont, or Washington.
- Understand that Autism Assistance Dogs are not permitted to accompany children to school.
How Autism Assistance Dog Serenity Has Impacted an Entire Family
Application Process
Submit an Application:
Due to the high volume of applicants, we are currently not accepting new applications. We expect to re-open the application process in 2025. Thank you for your interest in our program.
Initial Screening:
All applicants for Autism Assistance Dogs must have a documented Autism Spectrum Disorder diagnosis. This will be reviewed by the Application Screening Committee. If eligibility requirements are met, then you will be requested to submit additional documentation, such as a Medical History Form.
Interview:
Interviews provide us with additional information on the applicants’ needs and lifestyles. A Dogs for Better Lives associate conducts this interview; all members of the household must be present for this interview appointment.
Acceptance or Denial:
After the interview is completed, the entire application packet will be carefully reviewed and a final decision made as to whether or not one of our professionally trained dogs is suitable for the applicant.
Waiting Period:
The waiting period is approximately 36 months from the time the person is accepted to receive an Autism Assistance Dog.
Match and Placement:
Autism Assistance Dogs are accompanied by a trainer to the home of the client. The trainer teaches the teaches the child and family how to keep the dog working consistently and how to maintain the dog’s obedience training.
Post Placement:
Following the placement, regular communication is required. The client reports regularly on the progress of the dog. When problems arise or the client has any questions, the trainer offers help and answers questions. In-home follow up is also done.
Dogs for Better Lives provides follow-up support for the life of the team.
Dogs for Better Lives is an equal opportunity organization who does not and shall not unlawfully discriminate based upon race, political orientation, religion, gender, gender expression, sexual orientation, age, national origin, disability, marital status, military status, or for any discriminatory reason or other status prohibited by applicable law.