Published in Arquivos de Ciências da Saúde da UNIPAR, this case study by M. Figueiredo, Lilian Magalhaes, and Ana Luiza Allegretti explores the therapeutic potential of canine-assisted occupational therapy (CAOT) for a child on the autism spectrum. The approach integrates structured activities with purposeful inclusion of a therapy dog to support cognitive, emotional, and behavioral outcomes.
To track progress, the researchers used the Canadian Occupational Performance Measure (COPM) and a behavioral checklist assessing attention, persistence, communication, proximity, and interaction with the dog. These tools helped define therapeutic goals and measure changes over time.
The intervention was organized in progressive stages, with the dog incorporated into the final stage of each activity. This scaffolded structure allowed the child to build confidence, practice skills, and ultimately engage more successfully when the dog joined the task.
Results demonstrated notable improvements: the child showed increased intrinsic motivation, more frequent attention and interest, stronger persistence, enhanced communication behaviors, and greater proximity and time spent near the dog. These gains reflect heightened engagement and comfort within the therapeutic process.
The study highlights how CAOT can provide a multisensory, emotionally supportive context that may facilitate participation and learning for children with autism. By pairing structured activities with the unique motivational qualities of human–dog interaction, therapists can create meaningful opportunities for developmental growth.
Source: Figueiredo, M., Magalhaes, L., & Allegretti, A. L. (2023). Canine-Assisted Occupational Therapy: Case Study with a Child on the Autism Spectrum. Arquivos de Ciências da Saúde da UNIPAR. Published July 20, 2023.
