Animals and Autism

 ~ Clearly Muddled Blog ~

I love animals! I think the idea that humans are the superior species is a giant pile of horse dung. A couple of things I really dig about animals are the fact that they don’t pretend to be something other than what they are, and they are always, inherently good.  I’m talking about animals…but I might as well be talking about autism.

Yes, I am comparing animals to autism and autism to animals, because why wouldn’t I? Both operate from a place of purity, neither one sits in judgement of others, they equally have an uncanny ability to focus on things that most people would miss, and finally, they have the capacity to take in enormous amounts of information regarding what’s going on in their surroundings.  Meanwhile, I walk into a room and forget what I came into the room to do!

There have been some studies showing that animals have the ability to calm and relax someone with autism spectrum disorders.  When their person is getting anxious or overwhelmed, an animal can help them de-escalate.  I’ve seen it happen with Josh, and it’s amazing every single time.  It can be a life changer!

I think all animals are amazing.  I’ve got two dogs – Oliver and Einstein…I love these guys!  But when I’m running around the house looking for my sunglasses and they’ve been sitting on my head the whole time…my dogs just stare at me like I’m an idiot.

In conclusion: not ALL animals are comfort animals. Some will just laugh at you. Choose wisely.

Listen to the Podcast: Josh Has Autism #061: Animal Influence | http://sonyaking.com/josh-has-autism-061-animal-influence