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Statement of context: Canine-assisted occupational therapy for children on the autism spectrum has been proposed as a means of enhancing goal-directed interventions, yet there remain no clear guidelines of its safe and ethical practice. Critical reflection on practice: Introducing a therapy dog into occupational therapy practices with children on the autism spectrum was found to require a complex and multifaceted set of skills requiring additional training to support the safety and wellbeing of both the client and the therapy dog. Implications for practice: Canine-assisted occupational therapy with children on the autism spectrum requires clear practice guidelines, as well as continuing professional development opportunities.

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Autism spectrum disorder is a neurodevelopmental condition characterised by difficulties with communication, social interaction, and restricted and repetitive behaviours. For children with this disorder, the ability to engage with people and activities, and to participate in everyday occupations is compromised. Animal assisted therapy has been proposed as an intervention modality to facilitate development of an individual's social behaviours such as engagement and attention. In spite of the increasing evidence showing the positive impact animal assisted therapy can have for children on the autism spectrum, there remain no universal standards or formalised guidelines for ethical practice with either the clients or the therapy dogs involved. The proposed pilot randomised control trial aims to determine the impact of canine assisted occupational therapy on the on-task behaviours and overall goal attainment of children on the autism spectrum, as well as consider the impact that being involved within therapy sessions has on the therapy dog.

When working with children on the autism spectrum, occupational therapists aim to increase their participation in self-care, leisure, play and school-based activities