Using family dogs to help children with developmental disabilities be more active
The evaluation of a multi-site novel imitation based animal assisted intervention for children with developmental disabilities and their family dog
This study is exploring how training family dogs can help kids with developmental disabilities be more active and enjoy life more, making it easier for families to have fun and stay healthy together.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Oregon State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Corvallis, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10838550 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates a new approach that uses family dogs to encourage physical activity in children with developmental disabilities. By implementing a dog training protocol, the program aims to improve the physical activity levels, quality of life, and social wellbeing of these children. The intervention is designed to be accessible and manageable for families, promoting a healthier lifestyle through engaging activities with their pets. Preliminary findings suggest that this approach has already shown positive effects on both physical and emotional health.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children and adolescents with developmental disabilities who have access to a family dog.
Not a fit: Patients without access to a family dog or those who do not have developmental disabilities may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved physical health and emotional wellbeing for children with developmental disabilities through increased activity with their family dogs.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown positive outcomes from animal-assisted interventions, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
Corvallis, United States
- Oregon State University — Corvallis, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Macdonald, Megan I — Oregon State University
- Study coordinator: Macdonald, Megan I
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.