Terapia cupacional Assistida por Cães para Criança no Transtorno do Espectro Autista: um estudo de caso

Abstract

Animal-Assisted Therapy (AAT) involves the incorporation of a animal trained in therapy sessions to assist in the treatment of people with varied diagnoses, highlighting Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Occupational Therapy has practiced Canine-Assisted Therapy for children on ASD, which present demands for communication, language, social relationships and changes sensory, which can impact participation in activities of daily living (ADL's). The literature indicates that Canine-Assisted Occupational Therapy (CAOT), favors the engagement of children. Despite the increase in the practice of TAA with the dog as a therapy animal, there are still gaps in scientific knowledge regarding the effectiveness proven through controlled and randomized studies, specifically in the Brazil on Canine-Assisted Occupational Therapy. Objective: Evaluate and describe functional problems for the occupational performance of a child on ASD, develop and implement an Canine-Assisted Occupational Therapy plan (CAOT) for this child, reassess the child and describe changes in occupational performance after completing 11 CAOT sessions, describe the activities carried out and how the dog was incorporated to promote achievement of therapeutic objectives. Methodology: Case study, of a qualitative and exploratory nature involving a child on ASD, attended at the Health Unit School (USE) of the Federal University of São Carlos. Data collection was done using the Canadian Occupational Performance Measure pre- and post-intervention and observation of the child's reactions. The data obtained was analyzed quantitatively and compared pre- and post-intervention scores. Results: When comparing the pre- and post-intervention results, a clinically significant change was observed, highlighting improvements mainly in skills cognitive aspects of attention, concentration, motivation, autonomy, independence, increased verbal communication and improved anxiety. The presence of the dog was a crucial factor in encouraging the child to interact with the therapist and carry out the activities. Discussion: The effectiveness of Canine-Assisted Occupational Therapy is based on the theory of biophilia, social support and positive effects on the neuroendocrine system. Conclusion: Canine-Assisted Occupational Therapy proved to be beneficial for the child on ASD in this study, with the dog being a motivator for the child's engagement and improving their occupational performance in ADL's and communication.