Animal interaction affecting core deficit domains among children with autism: a meta-analysis

Abstract

Animal-assisted intervention (AAI) has garnered public interest and has been implemented in the treatment of symptoms associated autism spectrum disorder (ASD), a practice highly supported by anecdotal evidence. Efforts have been made in conducting experimental studies examining the effects of AAI on children with autism, yet extant literature is characterized by significant variability in methodology and practice. A meta-analysis was conducted to explore the effects of canine and equine interactions on the adaptive functioning of children with autism during AAI. Results indicated that interacting with an animal during AAI and interacting with an equine specifically had a small effect on the adaptive functioning of children with ASD; a non-significant effect was found for canine-based AAI. Additional results are reported and discussion is provided on how best to facilitate subsequent efforts at data aggregation and analysis.