Autism Dogs
Grant Smith 
What do we do.
Autism Assistance Dogs are not only a living miracle to the affected child or adult, but also to the entire family. These special dogs are trained to assist the individual, and in some cases the parents of the child, in a variety of ways.
Below are a few examples of the ways in which a dog trained for Autism assistance can help a family of a child with Autism or, for some of the commands, an individual.
1.Tether Training:
If your child tends to dart away from you or you have trouble holding onto your child for guidance, our dogs are trained to assist. Smart Service dogs wear special tether harnesses that has a leash attached to the belt loop of your child and a lead to you. When the child tries to dodge away, the dog is trained to resist this pressure thus keeping your child safe. This helps two folds, keeps your child out of danger and teaches your child to stop darting away. Many children struggle having their hands held by their parents or guardians whereas handling a dog has a positive effect on them. It gives them a sense of confidence and security that they are working and walking with their own dog. This keeps a child focused on their doggie and not on other distractions.
2. Search n Rescue :
Many parents and guardians are concerned that their kids are able to disarm alarms and open doors within seconds. Sometimes no matter how many precautions are taken their loved ones will find ways to wander off from the house. Smart service dogs can also be trained to track and search and locate the child by scent. Training the Search n Rescue dog is invaluable find a lost or maybe even an injured child.
3. Alert:
Parents say dogs that have been trained to respond by simply touching the kids can interrupt bad behaviors. Some children with autism demonstrate repetitive behaviors such as flailing their arms hitting various surfaces, stomping their feet etc. Our dogs are trained to react to these situations and behaviors.
4.Friendship:
One of the most important things to remember is dogs are not judgmental, they accept us for who we are. They offer unconditional love and devotion also as constant companions and most of all this can be the most important and beneficial relationship to your child.