ANIMAL-ASSISTED THERAPY

Animals have been a part of our lives as long as we have been on the planet. The health benefits of the human-animal bond are far reaching. From guide dogs, to watching fish in an aquarium, to swimming with dolphins, animals provide us with companionship, assistance, exercise, a sense of calmness, sensory stimulation, and a level of acceptance that is often difficult to find from any other source.

Purpose/GoalThe outcome of this course is for the learner to describe the purpose of animal-assisted therapy, theoretical background, benefits of this type of therapy for humans, common types of animal-assisted therapy, and guidelines for developing an animal-assisted therapy program.

Course Objectives – Upon completion you will be able to do the following:

1. Describe the history of animal-assisted therapy.
2. State the purpose of animal-assisted therapy programs and differentiate between the types of therapy animals.
3. Describe three theories that attempt to explain the therapeutic effects of human interactions with companion animals.
4. State the settings in which animal-assisted therapy is utilized.
5. List at least three benefits of animal-assisted therapy.
6. Identify four types of animals used in animal-assisted therapy.
7. State guidelines for animal-assisted therapy programs.
8. Describe the role of the health care provider relative to the human-animal connection.

CONTACT HOURS–2.0

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