There is a growing body of scientific research to support the use of animal-assisted therapy, demonstrating a wide range of mental and physical health benefits. If you have any questions about the science behind our work, or wish to book a session, please get in touch.
Evidence for the benefits of animal therapy is strongest for markers of anxiety and depression. Researchers note that the therapy may be beneficial for people from many different age groups with many different conditions. For example, a 2019 study found that the use of animals improved the efficacy of mental health treatment in adolescence. The therapy may be helpful for symptoms of dementia, depression, anxiety, autism spectrum disorder, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), Parkinson’s, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and more.
Some forms of animal therapy may also help with markers of physical conditions, including epilepsy, heart failure, pain from cancer treatment, post-operative recovery, and recovery after a stroke, or another condition that causes a person to lose motor skills. Working with an animal may motivate a person to continue therapy, boost their mood, and reduce signs of pain. It can also help people move and exercise more often.
Animal therapy is especially popular in the field of psychogeriatrics, a branch of medicine dealing with psychiatric care in old age. A study found that animal-assisted therapy in long-term elderly care facilities helped reduce symptoms of depression. The research suggested that animals might help facilitate social interaction and create positive emotional responses.
