This most likely has to do with animals being unpredictable in their behaviors, having odd textures, odd smells, and sharp teeth/claws....

Providing predictability in animal behavior is a first step that can be taken through pet-focused videos and shows on tv, the less-violent nature shows (try screening them ahead of time to pick out ones that show consistent, defined animal behaviors without violence such as biting, scratching, etc.).

Take your child to places where there are WALLS of glass between him/her and the animals (e.g. an aquarium), and focus on routine observable behavior in the animals... then move toward zoos and pet shop browsing. Perhaps a pet fish could be in order?

If his/her fear is very general toward ALL animals, you may want to work out a desensitization plan with a therapist specializing in autism, or through a sensory diet with an Occupational Therapist.

My daughter gets skiddish around all animals. Doesn't matter what kind it is. And my son is afraid of dogs but loves cats, unless they walk towards him! lol My brother-in-law has 2 dogs that they didn't have when my kids were born. It has taken a lot of work to get to a point where we can go over and they can let the dogs be out of their kennels. The kids still get a little jumpy if the dogs are hyper or they start barking, but it is much improved. This was accomplished with consistent exposure in small doses and seeing their older brother and cousins interacting with the dogs. I try not to get too involved because I'm allergic, but even I have found myself petting the dogs just so my kids see that they are safe.

Thanks for some great advice and input. I appreciate it!

It's potentially very dangerous I'm sure you've noticed... when we are out in public and he flips out. He can be very unpredictable. Not only that, but depending on the dog, the dog might act out defensively due to the commotion my son causes. I will let you know if I come across any ideas for helping our kids.

From what I can tell, animals are scary to my son since there is a level of unpredictability to them. For instance, if you were not used to being around a wild bear, you'd be terrified if one got into your cabin, or wouldn't want to go outside if one was present.

He's always been nervous around animals, but it got worse when we lived with my mother-in-law who had a dog who would nip at my son's heels for no apparent reason. It really freaked my son out and he wouldn't want to be around the dog at all. We have since moved, and now I have a cat that we have to leave in our bedroom when our son is home from school. As long as the animal is confined, or on a leash, it helps. However, when we are out at the park and someone has a dog running around, it poses some very scary situations when my son runs off unexpectedly, or won't stop screaming in panic. Any suggestions would be terrific. Thanks!!