Everyone tells us that animal assisted interventions can make a big difference for people who have dementia or autism but there is so much more we need to know.

Welcome to Dog Assisted Therapy for Change, set up in memory of Emma, my beloved four legged friend.

About 16 years ago, I became so unwell, even leaving the house was difficult. That's when Emma entered my life and things began to change. This gentle little black dog, rescued from the streets shared the next 15 years of her life with me, walking down the path of recovery together.

Dog Assisted Therapy for Change wants to set up a formal study of how a structured dog assisted intervention affects the quality of social interaction.

Over the last 20 years during the course of my work as a Therapist, I have been fortunate to have worked with so many people. I have witnessed how the most vulnerable people in our society often struggle to communicate in a way that enables them to be listened to, heard and understood.

Can you imagine how confusing, distressing and frustrating it must be for people who struggle to communicate or find it difficult to form and maintain relationships?

Dogs are masters of communication and dog lovers understand the unique relationship and bond that develops. What a powerful combination that can make a difference to the quality of life of someone diagnosed with dementia or autism.

The information from this study can then be shared with organisations who already value the inclusion of dogs in therapy and also with dementia and autism healthcare providers who recognise the need for meaningful communication.

How can you help?

Dog Assisted Therapy for Change is a unique opportunity for you to help us evaluate the impact of structured dog assisted therapy.

We need your help to fund this project to make it a reality.

Your Support will provide Dog Assisted Therapy for Change evidence to train more dogs and transform more people’s lives.