Research on service dogs for autistic kids?

Question

I'm trying to do some sort of research project with autistic kids and service dogs. I work with kids with autism, but the organization that I work through doesn't have any kids that have service dogs (nor does my supervisor know about any service dog organizations).

I'm looking for some research projects ideas (honors college level). I've started look at organizations, but can't seem to find anything local. Anyone know of any in Raleigh, NC (or even NC)?

This research will not include anything extreme, nothing that will place the child or dog in danger or in an uncomfortable position. I don't really have any facilities available, it will be a project that will most likely involve going out into the community and data collecting (which is why it would be great to find an organization in NC.

The project will last at least 8 months, but may last up to a year depending on how soon I can come up with research ideas.

I'd appreciate any general advice (and questions are welcome!)

Answer 1

I would start out by researching the literature to find out about service dogs.

Try and answer the following:

1.  What types of service dogs are there (make a table for your study).

2. Which populations do they serve (make table)?

3. Do any of these populations have characteristics in common with autistic children (use the DSM IVTR)(make table)

4.  If your answer to 3 is yes, then make a table that lists which populations, and what their common (with autism) characteristics are, and which dogs they use.

5.Make a table with types of dogs, autism like characteristics, and the characteristics of dogs of that breed (or the characteristicds that are named in the article).

This information will tell you if your project is likely to work.

It will tell you where people are doing studies on service dogs.

It will also tell you if any of the individuals are autistic.

Armed with this information, you will be able to design a good study.

Good luck!

Answer 2

http://www.northstardogs.com/services.sh...

and

http://www.4pawsforability.org/

are the two that I know of who have placed dogs with autistic children. I don't know of any that are specific to NC, there aren't many nationwide, and usually people plan on traveling and staying for the training when they are approved for one.