Study: Dogs Help Relieve Stress in Children with Autism

 

Cuddling Canines: Study shows that dogs may have positive psychological benefits in children with autism.

Man’s best friend may now be child’s best friend, according to a Université de Montreal study which shows that service dogs can reduce stress and anxiety in special needs children.

The study, published in the September issue of Psychoneuroendocrinology, showed that specially trained service dogs may help lower the levels of stress hormone cortisol in children with Autism Syndrome Disorders (ASDs).

While previous studies have shown that these pups can often have positive affects in helping ASD children cope with social situations, this new study exhibits promise in providing physiological benefits as well.

“Our findings showed that the dogs had a clear impact on the children’s stress hormone levels. I have not seen such a dramatic effect before,” said Sonia Lupien, senior researcher and professor at the Université de Montréal, in a recent statement.