Dogs and kids with ASD

[raspberrytart]

We have ds who is 4/12 and ASD, have noticed that he really likes dogs and is gentle with them.
I had an idea about 'borrowing' a dog for walks. Obv it would have to be well trained etc.
Has anyone ever done this or an I completely mad

I think that's a great idea - but it would be a question of finding the right dog.

Generally speaking, an older dog would be better as probably would be less excitable and better trained than a younger one.

Do you have any elderly neighbours who have an older dog - you would be doing them a favour at the same time if they arent particularly mobile.

Do you have a Dogs Trust near you? They often have older dogs because their elderly owners have become infirm/have went into sheltered accommodation so cant keep them and would be delighted if you could spend a bit of time walking one of them (they will also be able to make sure the dog you take is suitable).

I would have offered mine - he is fab when playing with little children, really gentle and extremely tolerant, but unfortunately his recall isnt perfect and he's very strong on the leash so probably not ideal.