does anyone have any advice with a new pet and a child with ASD?
we have all wanted a dog for a long time but due to ages etc have waited until now. Kids have badgered me non stop for the last 2 years.
DD(8) has ASD (no learning difficulties, main issues are emotional)
have spent over a year researching type of breed / training etc. have gone with a very calm breed which is actually used as a service dog. Was anticipating puppy being a lot of hard work sleepless nights etc.
oh the irony, the puppy is an absolute dream. Dd8 is completely dysregulated, meltdown after meltdown, was up at 2am last night unable to sleep and Kicking hitting scratching until 6 am.
I have tried speaking to her about it, she can’t shed any light on why she feels like this. She says she loves the puppy, she is engaging well with it. Obviously a huge shift for her and I’m now having to give the puppy a lot of extra attention that would usually be divided between her and DD6.
has anyone been through anything similar and can offer any insight or advice??