Parental perceptions of the impact of mobility assistance dogs for children with neurological impairment

Objective To understand parental perceptions of the impact of the introduction of a mobility assistance dog (MAD) to children with impaired walking and their families.Methods Semi-structured interviews were conducted with parents of ten children aged 6-12 with varied walking ability who had received MADs. A thematic analysis was completed.Findings Five themes related to the impact of the introduction of the MADs are described: (1) The impact on physical mobility; (2) Social Facilitation; (3) The dog as a motivator; (4) Personal growth for the child; (5) The impact on the family.Conclusion The results demonstrate that this novel therapy is perceived to improve physical activity for most children, to improve social engagement and to positively affect family life in children with walking impairments. Further quantitative studies are required to compare perceptions to measurable change. Longitudinal studies would show longer term effects.What this article adds This paper provides the first qualitative assessment of parent perceptions of changes in physical activity levels and social engagement for children with physical impairments receiving mobility assistance dogs. This is important early evidence in a growing therapeutic area.