MOD012 – Animal-Assisted Therapy – Dog

Definition

Animal-Assisted Therapy (AAT) involving dogs is a therapeutic approach that incorporates specially trained canines into structured treatment plans to enhance physical, emotional, social, and cognitive functioning. This modality harnesses the unique human-animal bond to facilitate healing and personal growth.

Explanation

In AAT sessions, carefully selected and rigorously trained dogs interact with individuals or groups under the guidance of a qualified therapist or handler. These interactions are purposefully designed to address specific therapeutic goals tailored to each client’s needs.

Sessions typically involve a range of activities, such as gentle petting, interactive play, basic obedience tasks, and structured exercises. These engagements are thoughtfully crafted to achieve particular outcomes, such as reducing stress, improving motor skills, enhancing communication, or boosting self-esteem.

The presence of a therapy dog creates a calming and non-judgmental environment, which can significantly lower anxiety levels and promote a sense of safety. This often allows clients to open up more readily, facilitating deeper therapeutic work.

Dogs in AAT serve multiple roles:

1. As social catalysts, encouraging interaction and communication
2. As living biofeedback mechanisms, helping clients recognise and regulate their emotions
3. As motivators for physical activity and engagement in therapy
4. As sources of comfort and unconditional positive regard

The versatility of AAT allows it to be integrated into various therapeutic settings, from hospitals and care homes to schools and mental health facilities. It can be particularly beneficial for individuals who struggle with traditional talk therapies or who have experienced trauma.

Evidence to Efficacy

There is compelling evidence demonstrating the efficacy of Animal-Assisted Therapy (AAT) involving dogs. Research from the UK and internationally highlights the positive impacts of this therapeutic approach across various domains of health and wellbeing.

A study conducted at the University of Portsmouth found that interactions with therapy dogs significantly reduced stress levels in university students during exam periods. The researchers observed a marked decrease in cortisol levels and self-reported anxiety among participants who engaged with therapy dogs compared to control groups.

In the healthcare setting, a pioneering study at Great Ormond Street Hospital in London demonstrated that children undergoing painful medical procedures experienced reduced anxiety and pain perception when a therapy dog was present during their treatment. The study reported a 37% reduction in pain scores and a 48% decrease in anxiety levels among paediatric patients who interacted with therapy dogs.

Research from the University of Manchester has shown that AAT can be particularly beneficial for individuals with dementia. The study found that regular interactions with therapy dogs improved mood, increased social interaction, and reduced agitated behaviours in care home residents with dementia.

A comprehensive review of AAT studies published in the British Journal of Nursing concluded that AAT interventions consistently showed positive outcomes in areas such as pain management, stress reduction, and improvement in social behaviours across various patient populations.

The physiological benefits of AAT are well-documented. Interactions with therapy dogs have been shown to increase levels of oxytocin, often referred to as the ‘bonding hormone’, which promotes feelings of trust and connection. Simultaneously, these interactions reduce cortisol levels, leading to decreased stress and anxiety.

In mental health settings, AAT has demonstrated promising results. A study conducted at the Maudsley Hospital in London found that patients with severe depression who participated in AAT sessions showed significant improvements in mood and engagement with their treatment programmes compared to those who received standard care alone.

The versatility of AAT is evident in its successful application across diverse populations. From children with autism spectrum disorders to elderly individuals in long-term care facilities, AAT has consistently shown positive outcomes in enhancing emotional wellbeing, social interaction, and overall quality of life.

These findings underscore the efficacy of Animal-Assisted Therapy as a valuable complementary approach in healthcare and therapeutic settings. The growing body of evidence supports the integration of AAT into various treatment modalities, offering a unique and effective means of enhancing patient care and outcomes.

The Neuroscience & Physiology

Animal-Assisted Therapy involving dogs engages fascinating neurological and physiological processes that illuminate the profound impact of human-animal interactions on our wellbeing:

When you interact with a therapy dog, your brain releases a cascade of beneficial neurochemicals. Oxytocin, often called the “bonding hormone”, increases significantly, fostering feelings of trust, empathy, and connection. This surge in oxytocin enhances social bonding and reduces stress, creating an optimal environment for therapeutic work.

Simultaneously, your body experiences a decrease in cortisol levels, the primary stress hormone. This reduction in cortisol leads to a more relaxed state, lowering blood pressure and heart rate. The presence of a therapy dog effectively activates your parasympathetic nervous system, promoting a “rest and digest” state conducive to healing and emotional processing.

Interacting with a therapy dog also stimulates the release of endorphins and dopamine, your brain’s natural “feel-good” chemicals. This neurochemical boost elevates mood, increases motivation, and enhances overall emotional wellbeing. The tactile sensation of petting a dog further amplifies these effects, engaging your sensory cortex and promoting a sense of grounding and presence.

From a quantum perspective, the interaction between humans and therapy dogs creates a unique energetic field. This field resonates at frequencies that promote healing and emotional balance. The coherent heart rhythms of dogs, which are more stable than those of humans, can entrain human heart rhythms to a more harmonious state, enhancing overall physiological coherence.

The visual cortex is also engaged when interacting with a therapy dog, processing the dog’s facial expressions and body language. This activates mirror neurons in your brain, facilitating empathy and emotional attunement. This neurological mirroring process supports emotional regulation and enhances social cognition.

Furthermore, the presence of a therapy dog activates the prefrontal cortex, the area of the brain responsible for executive functions such as decision-making and emotional regulation. This activation can improve cognitive function and emotional processing, particularly beneficial for individuals dealing with trauma or cognitive impairments.

The rhythmic act of petting a dog or engaging in structured activities during Animal-Assisted Therapy synchronises brain waves to a more relaxed alpha state. This state is associated with increased creativity, improved learning, and enhanced problem-solving abilities.

On a physiological level, interacting with a therapy dog increases levels of immunoglobulin A, an antibody crucial for immune function. This boost to the immune system contributes to overall physical health and resilience.

The olfactory system is also engaged during interactions with therapy dogs. The unique scent of dogs can trigger positive memories and emotions, activating the limbic system and promoting a sense of comfort and safety.

In essence, Animal-Assisted Therapy with dogs creates a holistic healing environment, engaging multiple neurological and physiological systems. This comprehensive approach harnesses the power of the human-animal bond to facilitate profound therapeutic outcomes, making it a valuable complement to traditional therapeutic modalities.

Governing Body

The International Association of Human-Animal Interaction Organizations (IAHAIO) is a key global body that provides guidelines and standards for Animal-Assisted Therapy (AAT) practices. Here are some specific organisations that focus on AAT training, certification, and standards:

IAHAIO (International Association of Human-Animal Interaction Organizations) developed the IAHAIO White Paper, which outlines best practices and guidelines for Animal-Assisted Interventions. They provide international standards for education and training in AAI.

Animal Assisted Intervention International (AAII):  offers accreditation for AAT programmes and practitioners worldwide. They provide standards of practice, a code of ethics, and competencies for animal-assisted therapy.

Pet Partners based in the US, Pet Partners is internationally recognised. They offer handler training courses and animal-handler team evaluations for those interested in providing AAT.

European Society for Animal Assisted Therapy (ESAAT) focuses on establishing quality standards for training in animal-assisted therapy across Europe. They accredit training programmes that meet their standards.

International Society for Animal Assisted Therapy (ISAAT)  like ESAAT, is involved in accrediting training programmes in animal-assisted therapy. They have a global reach and focus on maintaining high standards in AAT education.

Society for Companion Animal Studies (SCAS)  Based in the UK, SCAS provides resources, training, and support for those involved in animal-assisted interventions, including AAT. They offer courses and workshops on AAT.

These organisations are specifically focused on Animal-Assisted Therapy and related interventions, providing training, certification, and/or standards for the field. They play crucial roles in ensuring the quality and ethical practice of AAT globally.

What Good Looks Like

When you engage in a high-quality Animal-Assisted Therapy (AAT) session with dogs, you’ll experience several key elements that define a truly transformative encounter:

• As you enter the therapy space, you’ll immediately notice a calm and welcoming atmosphere. The therapy dog will be present, well-groomed, and displaying a relaxed demeanour. This initial impression sets the tone for a positive and safe therapeutic environment.
• You’ll be introduced to the therapy dog in a gentle, unhurried manner. The handler will guide you on how to approach and interact with the dog, ensuring you feel comfortable and in control of the interaction.
• Throughout the session, you’ll engage in purposeful activities with the dog that are tailored to your specific therapeutic goals. These might include grooming the dog, practising commands, or simply sitting quietly while petting the animal. Each activity is designed to address your unique needs, whether that’s improving motor skills, enhancing communication, or reducing anxiety.
• You’ll notice that the therapist and dog work as a seamless team. The therapist will use the dog’s presence and behaviours to facilitate your therapeutic process, drawing parallels between the dog’s actions and your own experiences or challenges.
• The dog’s non-judgmental presence will help you feel more at ease, allowing you to open up and express yourself more freely. You might find yourself discussing difficult topics or emotions that you’ve struggled to address in traditional therapy settings.
• You’ll experience moments of genuine connection with the dog, which can be profoundly moving. These interactions, whether it’s making eye contact, receiving affection, or successfully guiding the dog through a task, can boost your self-esteem and sense of empowerment.
• Throughout the session, you’ll be encouraged to reflect on your interactions with the dog and how they relate to your broader life experiences. This reflection helps deepen the therapeutic impact of the animal interaction.
• You’ll likely notice a reduction in stress and anxiety as the session progresses. The rhythmic act of petting the dog and the animal’s calming presence can have a tangible effect on your emotional state.
• At the end of the session, you should feel a sense of accomplishment and emotional uplift. The experience should leave you looking forward to your next AAT session, with a clear understanding of how these interactions are contributing to your overall therapeutic journey.

Remember, a truly exceptional AAT session with dogs is about more than just spending time with an animal. It’s a carefully structured therapeutic experience that harnesses the human-animal bond to facilitate your healing and personal growth.

What to Ask a Practitioner:

Here are key questions to ask when choosing an exceptional Animal-Assisted Therapy (AAT) practitioner working with dogs, along with what to look for in their answers:

How do you tailor AAT sessions to individual client needs?

Desired answer: Mentions of “personalised intervention plans”, “client-centred approach”, and “adaptive therapy techniques”. They should discuss how they modify activities based on specific therapeutic goals.

Can you describe your dog’s temperament and how it contributes to therapy sessions?

Desired answer: Descriptions like “calm demeanour”, “high emotional intelligence”, and “adaptable to various client needs”. They should emphasise the dog’s ability to remain composed in diverse therapeutic situations.

How do you ensure a strong working relationship between you, your therapy dog, and the client?

Desired answer: Terms like “triangulated interaction”, “facilitated bonding”, and “therapeutic alliance”. They should explain how they guide interactions to maximise therapeutic benefits.

What specific AAT techniques do you use to address different therapeutic goals?

Desired answer: Mentions of techniques like “canine-assisted deep breathing”, “tactile stimulation exercises”, or “non-verbal communication practice”. They should provide examples tailored to various therapeutic objectives.

How do you interpret and utilise the dog’s behaviour during sessions?

Desired answer: Discussion of “behavioural cues”, “emotional mirroring”, and “canine-assisted biofeedback”. They should explain how they use the dog’s reactions to enhance therapeutic insights.

What measures do you take to maintain your dog’s well-being during and between sessions?

Desired answer: Mentions of “work-rest balance”, “stress-reduction techniques for dogs”, and “ongoing welfare assessments”. They should demonstrate a deep commitment to their dog’s health and happiness.

How do you handle situations where a client might be fearful or allergic to dogs?

Desired answer: Discussions of “gradual exposure techniques”, “alternative AAT modalities”, and “collaborative problem-solving”. They should show flexibility in adapting their approach to client needs.

Can you explain how you integrate AAT with other therapeutic modalities?

Desired answer: Terms like “multi-modal approach”, “complementary interventions”, and “holistic therapy integration”. They should demonstrate how AAT enhances other therapeutic techniques.

How do you measure and evaluate the effectiveness of your AAT sessions?

Desired answer: Mentions of “objective outcome measures”, “client feedback integration”, and “continuous improvement processes”. They should have a structured approach to assessing therapeutic progress.

What ongoing professional development do you undertake specific to AAT?

Desired answer: References to “specialised AAT workshops”, “canine behaviour seminars”, and “inter-disciplinary collaboration”. They should show a commitment to staying current with AAT best practices.

An exceptional AAT practitioner will use specific terminology like “human-animal bond”, “zooeyia”, “canine-assisted interventions”, and “animal-assisted psychotherapy”. They should emphasise the importance of the triadic relationship between therapist, dog, and client, as well as demonstrate a deep understanding of both human psychology and canine behaviour.

Self-Study Resources

Here are some recommended resources for those interested in learning more about Animal-Assisted Therapy (AAT) involving dogs:

Books:

Handbook on Animal-Assisted Therapy by Megan Mueller, Zenithson Ng, Taylor Chastain Griffin, and Philip Tedeschi: This comprehensive textbook serves as a leading reference in the field, providing evidence-based practices, guidelines for working with therapy animals, and insights into the human-animal bond.

Animal-Assisted Therapy in Counseling by Cynthia K. Chandler: This book explores the integration of AAT into therapeutic practices, offering practical strategies and case studies to illustrate its effectiveness.

Animal Assisted Play Therapy by Risë VanFleet and Tracie Faa-Thompson: This resource focuses on incorporating playfulness into AAT, detailing methods that enhance therapeutic relationships through animal interactions.

The Other End of the Leash: Why We Do What We Do Around Dogs by Patricia McConnell: This engaging book delves into the dynamics of human-dog relationships and offers insights into how these interactions can be harnessed in therapy.

Paws & Effect: The Healing Power of Dogs by Alan M. Beck and Aaron Katcher: This book discusses the psychological benefits of dog companionship and how these benefits can be leveraged in therapeutic settings.

Online Resources

Pet Partners: This channel features videos on the impact of therapy animals, including testimonials and training tips for handlers.

Therapy Dogs International: Offers insights into the work of therapy dogs in various settings, showcasing their role in improving emotional wellbeing.

The Animal-Assisted Therapy Podcast: This podcast features interviews with practitioners and discussions on the latest research and practices in AAT.

The Animal Connection Podcast: Explores various aspects of human-animal interactions, including AAT, with expert guests sharing their insights.

These resources provide a solid foundation for anyone looking to explore Animal-Assisted Therapy with dogs further, offering a mix of theoretical knowledge, practical applications, and real-world examples.

Related Therapies

Equine-Assisted Therapy (MOD013): A form of experiential therapy involving interactions with horses to promote emotional growth and learning.

Music Therapy (MOD205): The use of music to address physical, emotional, cognitive, and social needs of individuals. Music therapy can include playing instruments, singing, and listening to music.

Art Therapy (MOD016): Utilises creative techniques such as drawing, painting, or sculpting to help individuals explore and express emotions, reduce anxiety, and increase self-awareness.

Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) (MOD106): A structured program that combines mindfulness meditation and yoga to cultivate awareness and reduce stress.