Animal Assisted Therapy Research Paper

In another study, a control group of 11 elderly people with a mental illness were compared to an experimental group of patients who were introduced to an animal assisted activity for 90 minutes a day once a week, the control group was not allowed to play with the animals but were allowed to see the animals. The animals used were three golden retrievers and a pincher who were all evaluated prior to be sure they were eligible to participate. Before the study the participants were given a survey to evaluate their quality of life, and after the study they were given the same survey. The participants evaluations significantly improved after six weeks of animal-assisted activities (Moretti) In short, animal assisted therapy aided elderly patients

The bond between humans and animals is an integral part of Animal-Assisted Therapy. Psychological benefits of AAT includes decreases in anxiety, isolation, and fear of procedures in hospitals. Pet ownership alone significantly decreases the risk of cardiovascular disease, morbidity, and mortality one year post-heart attack. In a study, there was significant changes in the psychological state of a group of patients visited by volunteers with dogs versus volunteers

Therapy animals can lower blood pressure and promote physical activities in nursing homes. The patients are not the only ones who get benefits from Animal visits, caregivers and hospital staff also experience reduced stress and improved relationships with others. To become an active therapy animal, the animals must pass a comprehensive test to see if they’re suited to work with people. Surprisingly animals also gain from therapy sessions, animals get excited for visits and even snuggle up to patients when they can sense they need it