Canadian Guide Dogs for the Blind is expanding its services for the first time in more than 40 years, launching a pilot program that trains autism service dogs for children.
The organization, based in Ottawa, says the decision follows a surge in inquiries from families seeking support for children on the autism spectrum. Instructor Sindisi Bunguza says the demand made it clear the time had come to grow beyond traditional guide dog training.
The dogs are trained to provide companionship, grounding and confidence for children who may struggle with overstimulation, communication or anxiety in public settings. Bunguza says the benefits often appear quickly once a child forms a bond with their dog.
Instructors say the results can be profound. Some children who are nonverbal begin attempting to say the dog’s name, and families report improvements in daily routines, transitions and emotional regulation.
The program remains small as trainers assess demand and refine their approach. But Canadian Guide Dogs for the Blind says it hopes to expand the service in the coming years as more families seek animal-assisted support.
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