The Role That Assistance Dogs Play in Supporting People with Disabilities

Dogs have long been recognised as valuable companions for people with disabilities. In this book, readers will learn about how dogs can improve the quality of life for people with physical, sensory, and mental disabilities. Using participant and expert insights, this book explores the benefits of dogs, including how they can increase independence, improve emotional wellbeing, and enhance social connections. Whether you are a person with a disability, a caregiver, a healthcare professional, or simply interested in learning more about the remarkable ways in which dogs can support people with disabilities, this book offers a compelling and informative read

Dr. Gabriel Bennett, the pen name for Dr Matthew Bennett, holds a Ph.D. in Disability Studies from Flinders University, Australia. He has lectured in Disability Studies at Griffith University, Queensland. He has also advised the Australian Government’s AutismCRC and has published articles for the Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders. He is actively involved in a wide range of disability research projects.

Dr. Emma Goodall, an adjunct research fellow at the University of Southern Queensland, holds a Ph.D. in Education, focused on teaching students on the autism spectrum. She is an executive member of the Australian Society for Autism Research, an independent researcher through Healthy Possibilities, a published author, and a keynote speaker in the areas of autism, sexuality and relationships, education, and interoception.