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Working with Guide Dogs WA – Autism Assistance Dog Program
At Southbank Day Surgery we work closely with our patients, their families and carers, and we take extra care with our autism patients.
Some of our patients with autism have an Autism Assistance Dog (AAD) accompany them on their visit to hospital, assist them when they go into theatre, and be present in our recovery area when they wake up.
An Autism Assistance Dog can make a substantial contribution to a child’s safety when they leave the home. Physical control of the AAD is managed by the child’s parent who have the dog on a lead and a collar. The dog and the child are connected via a special handle on the dog’s coat, which the child holds, and another lead. The child is able to walk alongside the dog and the parent has a free hand. Should the child attempt to ‘bolt’ or run, the dog is trained to ‘anchor’ or stay still and stop the child from running.
Guide Dogs WA’s AAD program is designed to improve the quality of life of a child living with autism and their family through three key areas; safety, independence and inclusion.
If you are interested in participating in the Autism Assistance Dog program or have any further questions about eligibility, please contact, Guide Dogs WA on telephone 9311 8202 or email info@guidedogswa.com.au. A fact sheet can be found on the website https://www.guidedogswa.com.au/autism-assistance-dog-program/
Photos courtesy of Guide Dogs WA