The effects of assistance dogs on social acknowledgements and engagement of people with visible disabilities – A case study

Stigmatization of people with visible disabilities is a well-recognized concept, as is the knowledge that Assistance Dogs (ADs) may serve as social lubricants. This case study explored the interplay of these two concepts in the everyday life of a person (Mary) with a visible disability and her AD (Cino). This mixed methods study collected both quantitative observational data and qualitative interview data. Four episodes of Mary interacting in the community with and without Cino (AD) were observed using an observation checklist. These were complimented by four in-depth interviews with Mary and one with a close family member. Interview transcripts were used to construct a thematic understanding of the complex ways in which Mary’s life and experience of living with significant disability are impacted by having Cino to support her. Observational data identified that the presence of Mary’s AD considerably increased social acknowledgements of Mary from members of the public during community interactions. Two major themes (The dog makes a difference, and Lack of understanding, awareness, and support) each with four subthemes, emerged from the interviews. The complex mesh of experiences related to the support of her AD(s), both positive and negative, are mapped in the subthemes. While both positive and negative aspects of AD ownership were identified and explored, Mary assesses the net effect of having Cino, as ultimately positive, outweighing numerous complications and drawbacks in life lived with disability. The findings contribute to a more nuanced understanding of the way ADs can impact both positively and negatively in the lives of people living with disability. These insights provide points that can be used in discussing potential AD support with people exploring this option. They also caution against simplistic, “do ADs really work?” approaches in research as Mary’s lived experiences show that this is nuanced by multiple personal, clinical, social, physical, and broad environmental factors.