Therapy dogs open autistic kids' world

James, who has autism and was at the time aged two, was given "a whole new world of freedom" by having the much-loved black Labrador in their lives, says mum Chantel.

Winter is now retired from full time assistance duties and no longer legally able to accompany his teenage mate in indoor settings but has more than fulfilled his role.

"Over the past 10 years he expanded James' world in countless ways ... giving him the confidence to perform in an eisteddfod, graduate in front of his peers, travel interstate and venture into public places," Chantel said.

"He has transformed our lives as a family."

The presence of specially-trained therapy dogs for autistic children is giving other families confidence to venture further and more often too, researchers say.

University of South Australia honours student Rebecca Appleby recently concluded interviews with eight households paired with assistance dogs like Winter.

On average, they visited 8.5 more places and travelled 20 kilometres further from home within a year of having the dog.

Parents whose children had severe autism and were usually strapped into a pram for safety on outings also reported greater freedom, as the dog was able to act as a natural restraint instead.

While previously reluctant to leave home because of the stress involved and inevitably feeling trapped and isolated, the dog allowed them to venture out as their child was calmer and safer in its presence.

Ms Appleby says parents reported fewer meltdowns among children who sought out the dog when feeling overwhelmed.

And as kids on the spectrum often get lonely as they find social interaction and communication difficult, their dog gave them much needed companionship.

Study supervisor Dr Shelley Wright says freedom to explore new places is something most people take for granted but for children with autism and their parents, it's fraught with sensory challenges.

"In summary, many parents were not sure how they managed without the dog," she said.

"The parents we interviewed were much happier and more at ease leaving their home with their child" after getting one.

An additional finding was the peace of mind stemming from the dog sleeping with the child, improving sleep for the household as a whole, Dr Wright said.

The only frustration reported by families was a lack of public understanding about access rights, with some places not understanding the law and refusing their dog entry.

"James was just a baby when we got Winter but the difference he has made over the years has been breathtaking," Chantel said.

Australian Associated Press