The use of a trained dog as a gait aid for clients with ataxia: a case report

To illustrate the use of a trained dog as a therapeutic tool to optimize physical and psychosocial adaptation of clients with ataxia.

The gait pattern and gait speed of two people with cerebellar ataxia using different gait aids, including a trained intervention dog and an assistance dog, were compared. Participants' experience of working with the dogs was documented via semi-structured interviews.

The use of an intervention dog as part of rehabilitation allowed clients to explore the benefits of an assistance dog and to optimize their physical functioning. The assistance dog had a less destabilizing effect than other walking aids on the clients' self-image.

Trained dogs may represent an innovative and positive alternative for mobility for people with ataxia, improving both physical and psychosocial parameters. Assistance dogs seem to be a suitable gait aid, since they facilitate ambulation, promoting independent mobility.