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Xiao N, Bagayi V, Yang D, Huang X, Zhong L, Kiselev S, Bolkov MA, Tuzankina IA, Chereshnev VA. Effectiveness of animal-assisted activities and therapies for autism spectrum disorder: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Front Vet Sci 2024; 11:1403527. [PMID: 38895710 PMCID: PMC11184216 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2024.1403527] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2024] [Accepted: 05/15/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Given the rising interest in complementary therapeutic strategies for autism spectrum disorder (ASD), this research aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of the impact of animal-assisted activities and therapies (AAAT) on various ASD symptoms. Methods A meticulous search of databases, including Scopus and PubMed, was conducted to gather relevant research on AAAT for ASD. This process led to the selection of 45 studies encompassing 1,212 participants. The chosen studies were then subjected to a meta-analysis to evaluate the efficacy of AAAT in alleviating core ASD symptoms. Results The meta-analysis revealed significant improvements in several core ASD symptoms due to AAAT. Notably, there were improvements in social communication (MD = -4.96, 95% CI [-7.49, -2.44]), irritability (MD = -2.38, 95% CI [-4.06, -0.71]), hyperactivity (MD = -4.03, 95% CI [-6.17, -1.89]), and different word usage skills (MD = 20.48, 95% CI [7.41, 33.55]). However, social awareness (MD = -1.63, 95% CI [-4.07, 0.81]), social cognition (MD = -3.60, 95% CI [-9.36, 2.17]), social mannerisms (MD = -0.73, 95% CI [-2.55, 1.09]), social motivation (MD = -1.21, 95% CI [-2.56, 0.13]), lethargy (MD = -1.12, 95% CI [-3.92, 1.68]), and stereotypical behaviors (MD = -0.23, 95% CI [-1.27, 0.80]) did not significantly improve. Conclusion The study demonstrates the potential of AAAT in improving certain core symptoms of ASD, such as social communication, irritability, hyperactivity, and word usage skills. However, the effectiveness of AAAT in other ASD symptom domains remains uncertain. The research is limited by the absence of long-term follow-up data and a high risk of bias in existing studies. Therefore, while the findings indicate the promise of AAAT in specific areas, caution is advised in generalizing its efficacy across all ASD symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ningkun Xiao
- Department of Immunochemistry, Institution of Chemical Engineering, Ural Federal University, Yekaterinburg, Russia
- Laboratory for Brain and Neurocognitive Development, Department of Psychology, Institution of Humanities, Ural Federal University, Yekaterinburg, Russia
| | - Vaishnavi Bagayi
- Laboratory for Brain and Neurocognitive Development, Department of Psychology, Institution of Humanities, Ural Federal University, Yekaterinburg, Russia
| | - Dandan Yang
- Guang’an District Women and Children’s Hospital, Guangan, China
| | - Xinlin Huang
- Laboratory for Brain and Neurocognitive Development, Department of Psychology, Institution of Humanities, Ural Federal University, Yekaterinburg, Russia
| | - Lei Zhong
- Doctoral Department, Russian Sports University, Moscow, Russia
| | - Sergey Kiselev
- Laboratory for Brain and Neurocognitive Development, Department of Psychology, Institution of Humanities, Ural Federal University, Yekaterinburg, Russia
| | - Mikhail A. Bolkov
- Institute of Immunology and Physiology of the Ural Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Yekaterinburg, Russia
| | - Irina A. Tuzankina
- Institute of Immunology and Physiology of the Ural Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Yekaterinburg, Russia
| | - Valery A. Chereshnev
- Department of Immunochemistry, Institution of Chemical Engineering, Ural Federal University, Yekaterinburg, Russia
- Institute of Immunology and Physiology of the Ural Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Yekaterinburg, Russia
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Hill J, Mensforth S, Waldby L, Fleming J, Quinlan T, Driscoll C. Canine-Assisted Occupational Therapy for Children within a Student-Led University Clinic: The Influence on Child Engagement from the Perspectives of Student and Parent Participants. Phys Occup Ther Pediatr 2023; 44:444-459. [PMID: 37872764 DOI: 10.1080/01942638.2023.2273281] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2023] [Accepted: 10/11/2023] [Indexed: 10/25/2023]
Abstract
AIMS Animal-assisted therapy has gained increased attention in occupational therapy. Yet there remains minimal education opportunities available. In addition to supporting student learning, student-led clinics have the potential to provide a valuable, cost-effective health service to the community. This study aimed to explore the potential benefits to the children clients participating in a student-led, canine-assisted occupational therapy pediatric clinic from the perspectives of the students and parents. METHOD Semi-structured interviews were conducted with nine occupational therapy students, and five parents to describe their experience. Transcripts were analyzed using inductive thematic analysis. RESULTS Participants emphasized how the presence of the therapy dog supported child engagement within the therapy session. Ways in which participants believed the therapy dog influenced the children's engagement were described within three themes. The first highlighted the importance of the relationship between the children and the therapy dog. The second described how this relationship facilitated a sense of safety within the sessions. The third captured how this sense of safety supported the children's participation within their meaningful occupations. CONCLUSIONS Parents and students involved in the canine-assisted occupational therapy clinic perceived that canine-assisted therapy was supportive of child engagement in therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Hill
- The University of Queensland, School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, Occupational Therapy, St Lucia, Queensland, Australia
| | - Sophie Mensforth
- The University of Queensland, School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, Occupational Therapy, St Lucia, Queensland, Australia
| | - Lucy Waldby
- The University of Queensland, School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, Occupational Therapy, St Lucia, Queensland, Australia
| | - Jennifer Fleming
- The University of Queensland, School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, Occupational Therapy, St Lucia, Queensland, Australia
| | - Teresa Quinlan
- The University of Queensland, School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, Occupational Therapy, St Lucia, Queensland, Australia
| | - Carlie Driscoll
- The University of Queensland, School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, Occupational Therapy, St Lucia, Queensland, Australia
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Rehn AK, Caruso VR, Kumar S. The effectiveness of animal-assisted therapy for children and adolescents with autism spectrum disorder: A systematic review. Complement Ther Clin Pract 2023; 50:101719. [PMID: 36599281 DOI: 10.1016/j.ctcp.2022.101719] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2022] [Revised: 12/19/2022] [Accepted: 12/28/2022] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND and purpose Individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) experience difficulty with communication, learning, behaviour, and social interactions. Animal-assisted therapy (AAT) is a growing alternative and complementary therapy for ASD. This review aims to investigate the effectiveness of AAT for children and adolescents with ASD in the domains of cognitive, social, emotional, behavioural, and physical. METHODS A systematic search of databases (Medline, Emcare, Embase, Cochrane Library, PsycINFO, PsycARTICLES, Scopus, ERIC and OTseeker) was conducted in March 2022. Grey literature was also explored which included searching Trove database and the first 10 pages of Google, as well as pearling reference lists of included studies. This review followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) statement. The methodological quality of the included studies was assessed using a modified Joanna Briggs Institute Review Form for Randomised Controlled Trials. A descriptive synthesis was undertaken due to heterogeneity within the evidence base. RESULTS Seven randomised controlled/clinical controlled trials with moderate methodological quality were included in this review. Overall, participation in AAT identified positive trends in the cognitive, social, emotional, behavioural, and physical domains. Despite the positive outcomes, implementation of AAT should be taken with caution as there are currently no standardised frameworks due to heterogeneity within the intervention protocols and outcome measures. CONCLUSION AAT may have positive effects across a multitude of outcomes in the management of ASD for children and adolescents. However, the current literature has considerable methodological concerns which should be addressed by future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy Kate Rehn
- UniSA Allied Health and Human Performance, University of South Australia, GPO Box 2471, Adelaide, South Australia, 5001, Australia.
| | - Victoria Rose Caruso
- UniSA Allied Health and Human Performance, University of South Australia, GPO Box 2471, Adelaide, South Australia, 5001, Australia.
| | - Saravana Kumar
- UniSA Allied Health and Human Performance, University of South Australia, GPO Box 2471, Adelaide, South Australia, 5001, Australia.
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Richardson K, Mackenzie L, Lovarini M, Dickson C. Occupational therapy incorporating dogs for autistic children and young people: Parent perspectives. Br J Occup Ther 2022. [DOI: 10.1177/03080226221086217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Introduction Dogs may elicit positive therapy outcomes for children/adolescents with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). However, little is known about the parent perspectives of the use of dogs as part of an occupational therapy program for ASD. This study aimed to explore parent perspectives about the Animal Assisted Therapy (AAT) component of the occupational therapy intervention their child/adolescent received across five weekly sessions. Method Using a phenomenological approach, 16 semi-structured interviews were conducted with parents (13 mothers and four fathers) following an AAT occupational therapy program. Thematic analysis was conducted. Results Three themes were identified relating to the value parents attributed to the AAT occupational therapy program with dogs for their child/adolescent: 1. Stress and anxiety management; 2. Participation and engagement and 3. Social communication. Positive outcomes identified by parents included the dogs being a calming influence and facilitating the participation of their child/adolescent in life-skill activities. Conclusion Parents valued AAT occupational therapy involving dogs. Future studies should investigate how to best target this occupational therapy approach for autistic children and adolescents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathleen Richardson
- The University of Sydney, Discipline of Occupational Therapy, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Lynette Mackenzie
- The University of Sydney, Discipline of Occupational Therapy, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Meryl Lovarini
- The University of Sydney, Discipline of Occupational Therapy, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Claire Dickson
- Occupational Therapist, Assistance Dogs Australia, Engadine, Sydney, NSW, Australia
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Dog Welfare, Well-Being and Behavior: Considerations for Selection, Evaluation and Suitability for Animal-Assisted Therapy. Animals (Basel) 2020; 10:ani10112188. [PMID: 33238376 PMCID: PMC7700550 DOI: 10.3390/ani10112188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2020] [Revised: 11/16/2020] [Accepted: 11/19/2020] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Benefits for humans participating in animal-assisted therapy (AAT) have been long documented; however, welfare considerations for the animal counterparts are still quite non-specific, often relating to more general concerns associated with animal-assisted interventions (AAIs). Providers of AAT have a moral and ethical obligation to extend the “Do No Harm” tenet to the animals with whom they work. Companion animals do not ask or voluntarily sign up to be a part of a therapeutic team and their natural traits of love and sociability can easily be misinterpreted and exploited. This article reviews the current state of animal-assisted interventions; it highlights the lack of sufficient evaluation processes for dogs working with AAT professionals, as well as the risks associated with not protecting the dogs’ welfare. Finally, the authors make recommendations for determining the suitability of specific dogs in the clinical setting and ensuring that the population, environment, and context of the work is amenable to the dogs’ welfare and well-being. Abstract Health care and human service providers may include dogs in formal intervention settings to positively impact human physical, cognitive and psychosocial domains. Dogs working within this context are asked to cope with a multitude of variables including settings, populations, activities, and schedules. In this article, the authors highlight how both the preparation and operation of dogs within animal-assisted therapy (AAT) differs from less structured animal-assisted activities (AAA) and more exclusive assistance animal work; the authors highlight the gaps in our knowledge in this regard, and propose an ethically sound framework for pragmatic solutions. This framework also emphasizes the need for good dog welfare to safeguard all participants. If dogs are not properly matched to a job or handler, they may be subjected to unnecessary stress, anxiety, and miscommunication that can lead to disinterest in the work, overt problematic behavioral or health outcomes, or general unsuitability. Such issues can have catastrophic outcomes for the AAT. The authors propose standards for best practices for selection, humane-based preparation and training, and ongoing evaluation to ensure the health, welfare and well-being of dogs working in AAT, which will have concomitant benefits for clients and the professionalism of the field.
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Overgaauw PA, Vinke CM, van Hagen MA, Lipman LJ. A One Health Perspective on the Human-Companion Animal Relationship with Emphasis on Zoonotic Aspects. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:E3789. [PMID: 32471058 PMCID: PMC7312520 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17113789] [Citation(s) in RCA: 105] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2020] [Revised: 05/21/2020] [Accepted: 05/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Over time the human-animal bond has been changed. For instance, the role of pets has changed from work animals (protecting houses, catching mice) to animals with a social function, giving companionship. Pets can be important for the physical and mental health of their owners but may also transmit zoonotic infections. The One Health initiative is a worldwide strategy for expanding collaborations in all aspects of health care for humans, animals, and the environment. However, in One Health communications the role of particularly dogs and cats is often underestimated. OBJECTIVE Evaluation of positive and negative One Health issues of the human-companion animal relationship with a focus on zoonotic aspects of cats and dogs in industrialized countries. METHOD Literature review. RESULTS Pets undoubtedly have a positive effect on human health, while owners are increasing aware of pet's health and welfare. The changing attitude of humans with regard to pets and their environment can also lead to negative effects such as changes in feeding practices, extreme breeding, and behavioral problems, and anthropozoonoses. For the human, there may be a higher risk of the transmission of zoonotic infections due to trends such as sleeping with pets, allowing pets to lick the face or wounds, bite accidents, keeping exotic animals, the importation of rescue dogs, and soil contact. CONCLUSIONS One Health issues need frequently re-evaluated as the close human-animal relationship with pet animals can totally differ compared to decennia ago. Because of the changed human-companion animal bond, recommendations regarding responsible pet-ownership, including normal hygienic practices, responsible breeding, feeding, housing, and mental and physical challenges conforming the biology of the animal are required. Education can be performed by vets and physicians as part of the One Health concept.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul A.M. Overgaauw
- Department Population Health Sciences, Division of Veterinary Public Health, Institute for Risk Assessment Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, P.O. Box 80178, 3508 TD Utrecht, The Netherlands;
| | - Claudia M. Vinke
- Unit Animals in Science & Society, Animal Behaviour, Department Population Health Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, P.O. Box 80166, 3508 TD Utrecht, The Netherlands; (C.M.V.); (M.A.E.v.H.)
| | - Marjan A.E. van Hagen
- Unit Animals in Science & Society, Animal Behaviour, Department Population Health Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, P.O. Box 80166, 3508 TD Utrecht, The Netherlands; (C.M.V.); (M.A.E.v.H.)
| | - Len J.A. Lipman
- Department Population Health Sciences, Division of Veterinary Public Health, Institute for Risk Assessment Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, P.O. Box 80178, 3508 TD Utrecht, The Netherlands;
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Canine Assisted Occupational Therapy for Children on the Autism Spectrum: A Pilot Randomised Control Trial. J Autism Dev Disord 2020; 50:4106-4120. [PMID: 32266682 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-020-04483-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
Children on the autism spectrum frequently display difficulties engaging with people and with functional tasks. A pilot, randomised control trial was completed to explore the impact of canine assisted occupational therapy on the on-task behaviours and goal attainment of autistic children when compared to occupational therapy sessions as usual. Twenty-two children between the ages of 4, and 6 years and 11 months, were randomly placed in either the treatment group (n-11) or waitlist control group (n = 11). Results showed that although there was a positive trend for on-task behaviour and goal attainment within the treatment group, results were not statistically significant. These results support the need for further research in the area of canine assisted occupational therapy for autistic children.
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Hill J, Ziviani J, Driscoll C, Cawdell-Smith J. Canine-assisted occupational therapy for children on the autism spectrum: Challenges in practice. Br J Occup Ther 2019. [DOI: 10.1177/0308022619858851] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Statement of context: Canine-assisted occupational therapy for children on the autism spectrum has been proposed as a means of enhancing goal-directed interventions, yet there remain no clear guidelines of its safe and ethical practice. Critical reflection on practice: Introducing a therapy dog into occupational therapy practices with children on the autism spectrum was found to require a complex and multifaceted set of skills requiring additional training to support the safety and wellbeing of both the client and the therapy dog. Implications for practice: Canine-assisted occupational therapy with children on the autism spectrum requires clear practice guidelines, as well as continuing professional development opportunities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Hill
- School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Jenny Ziviani
- School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Carlie Driscoll
- School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Judy Cawdell-Smith
- School of Agriculture and Food Sciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
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