A Dog for an Autistic Person: Fostering Independence

Dogs have long been used as companions, and communication with them—canine therapy—is an effective psychotherapeutic method that helps develop cognitive and emotional abilities, as well as improve motor skills. They can also be beneficial for autistic individuals.

Emotional Support and Increased Independence

First and foremost, dogs provide emotional support, which significantly boosts the level of independence. For an autistic person, a dog can become not only a “shoulder to cry on” but also a source of comfort, help initiate communication with others, and even assist with daily tasks, thus improving the overall quality of life.

Our four-legged friends are known for their ability to sense human emotions, often offering comfort when their owners feel down. This emotional connection is especially valuable for people who struggle with anxiety, as it helps them feel safer. Research has also shown that interacting with dogs can lower stress levels, which in turn increases confidence, whether it’s having a conversation with strangers or visiting busy places. The calming presence of a pet makes it easier to navigate the world in various aspects.

Dogs as Social Mediators

Dogs can serve as social intermediaries, easing the process of communication with others for autistic individuals. Pet owners often meet and strike up conversations during walks, which helps the autistic person develop skills such as eye contact and turn-taking in conversations—learning not only to speak but also to listen. Over time, this can help them connect with peers.

A Structured Routine and Responsibility

Given the tendency of autistic individuals to have their daily routines “minute by minute,” caring for a dog—feeding, walking, and training—becomes a predictable event that can occur at the same time every day. The pet will not mind following a strict schedule, and its owner will improve their time management skills and develop a sense of responsibility. Moreover, taking care of an animal teaches how to prioritize tasks and manage multiple responsibilities.

Physical Activity and Wellbeing

Every dog requires regular physical activity. Exercise, such as walking or playing with a frisbee, promotes a healthier lifestyle and provides numerous mental health benefits. For autistic individuals, increased physical activity can help reduce anxiety and improve mood, contributing to overall well-being. The presence of a dog makes exercise a fun and motivating experience, transforming it from a chore into an enjoyable outdoor activity.

A Dog as a Companion for Autistic Children

Any child would likely be thrilled to have a dog, but for autistic individuals, the animal can have special significance. However, communication with the dog is not only about stabilizing emotional states. To ensure that the relationship between the autistic person and their pet mirrors those of other people, the root cause of stress, anxiety, and other factors—namely, autism—must be addressed.

Cell Therapy: A Way to Overcome Autism

The best way to achieve this is through cell therapy—a groundbreaking technology that involves transplanting the patient’s own stem cells, derived from umbilical cord blood or bone marrow. After transplantation, these cells transform into healthy analogs of damaged cells, replacing them, which allows the brain and nervous system to function as intended by nature.

This method has gained widespread recognition and is becoming increasingly recommended. However, it is currently offered only at leading clinics worldwide, including the Mardaleishvili Medical Center, which is equipped with state-of-the-art technology and staffed by highly qualified specialists. The medical center in Georgia has everything necessary, and additionally, its services are more affordable than those in other countries, with assistance provided starting from the travel planning stage.

Take advantage of cell therapy to overcome autism and its symptoms—so your child can have the same relationship with a dog as anyone else!