"Handling a dog by children with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disord" by John W. Somervill, Ashley M. Swanson et al.
Ashley M. Swanson, University of Northern Iowa
Marissa A. Arnett, University of Northern Iowa
Physiological reactions to handling a dog were recorded for 17 children (13 males & 4 females ranging in age from 7 to 12 years), 16 with a primary diagnosis of Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder. The major finding was a significant increase in blood pressure and pulse rate five minutes after holding a dog. It was concluded that a dog used for pet therapy with children diagnosed as ADHD was more likely to have an excitatory effect than a calming one. © NAJP.
Somervill, John W.; Swanson, Ashley M.; Robertson, Renee L.; Arnett, Marissa A.; and MacLin, Otto H., "Handling a dog by children with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder: Calming or exciting?" (2009). Faculty Publications. 2286.