Pets can bring companionship and stability to kids and teens with autism. Pets can also bring friendship to lonely children and introduce new responsibilities to older children and teenagers.

On MyAutismTeam, the social network and online support group parents caring for kids with autism, members talk about a range of personal experiences and struggles. Therapy pets are one of the top 10 topics most discussed.

Here are some conversations about therapy pets:

• Does insurance cover a therapy pet?

• Do therapy dogs help?

• A member shares a photo of her son and his service dog.

• Dr. said we could take the day from school and we went to a petting zoo. I think it helped recharge my son's batteries.

• My daughter loves this dog and has been waiting all week for tomorrow, but is getting anticipation anxiety.

• We got a new puppy, and I need advice.

Can you relate?

Have another topic you'd like to discuss or explore? Go to MyAutismTeam today and start the conversation. You'll be surprised just how many others may share similar stories.

Feel free to ask a question here.