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Maryville College researchers are finding that service dogs help children with autism.

The college is currently conducting case study research using Wilderwood Service Dogs, of Maryville. The five-year study was started in June 2008.

"The researchers have been amazed at the results," said Wilderwood Public Relations Director Deanna Hall in a news release. "Not only are changes being seen in children with autism as the result of the introduction of a service dog, but the results are occurring within days, which is almost unheard of in the research world.

"The research is also indicating that these changes are long lasting and continue to improve over time."

Wilderwood Service Dogs is graduating three service dogs this week.

Three families will spend a week learning how to work with their service dogs and going on outings with them.

These are highly-trained service dogs that live, go to work and/or school with children and adults.

Classroom training is on the Maryville College campus. Local businesses, including Target, PetSafe and Lowe's, are supporting the effort by allowing training to take place at their sites, Hall said.

PetSafe has adopted a dog, and in doing so, got the opportunity to name its dog, Hope. The company will be providing all of Hope's medical care and participating in Hope's growth as she develops into a mature service dog.

For information on how your organization can sponsor a dog or for further information, contact Deanna Hall, public relations director at 865-379-2188 or email her at deannahallimc@bellsouth.net or email Wilderwood at wilderwood@charter.net.

Donations can be mailed to Wilderwood, 1319 Tuckaleechee Trail, Maryville, TN 37803-4353.