Animal Assisted Therapy: Animal Assisted Therapy: Introducing TullulahIntroducing Tullulah

Martina Quinn, MSWOncology Research Seminar

January 19, 2009

Animal Assisted Therapy Animal Assisted Therapy (AAT)(AAT)

What is it? A goal directed intervention in which an

animal is an integral part of the treatment process

Has both therapeutic and preventative goals

A clinical approach that aims to foster beneficial links between humans

and animals

Rationale for AATRationale for AAT Animals naturally stimulate an

attraction and attachment response

This affects individuals’ well-being (Brodie & Biley, 1999)

History of AATHistory of AAT Has been recognized as beneficial to

patients since 1800s Integration of animals within care

environment advocated by founders of Nursing

Florence Nightingale

However, integration into hospitals and other health care settings has been slow

History of AAT (cont’d)History of AAT (cont’d) Since the 1960s, there has been a proliferation

of programs in hospitals, long-term care facilities, Hospice programs, rehabilitation facilities, schools, and community care.

History of AAT (cont’d)History of AAT (cont’d) Clinicians have

observed the role of the human/animal bond in promoting health for animals and humans

In the 1980s, efforts grew to document the efficacy of this intervention

Benefits of AATBenefits of AAT

Animals offer companionship, unconditional regard, tolerance, and sensory stimulation (Martin, 1993)

Relaxation, decreased anxiety and depression, lowering of blood pressure, and improved quality of life for cancer patients (Chinner & Dalziel, 1991; Friedman, 1983; Mushel, 1984)

Research Specific to Research Specific to OncologyOncology

France Bouchard, et al. wanted to show the value of AAT in pediatric oncology

(Canadian Oncology Nursing Journal, January 14, 2004)

Her Objectives were to:

Stimulate children’s interaction & communication

Promote sense of responsibility and usefulness amongst the children

Reduce their stress and anxiety Reduce their loneliness, boredom and isolation Increase psychological and physical well-being Increase treatment receptivity and compliance

The StudyThe Study The project ran 1 year Dogs spent time at bedside

8 hour sessions Up to 3 times per week A parent was also present

The parents, children and staff regularly filled out questionnaires during this time

Parental ReportsParental Reports

Gave children confidence Friendship developed with

child Child was much happier Dog gave affection, attention,

comfort, warmth and encouragement

Staff ReportsStaff Reports

Promoted child’s adaptation to and recovery from chemotherapy and surgery

When dog present, they found greater job satisfaction thus able to give better care as a result

Looked forward to working due to the decreased resistance of child

Adult StudyAdult Study Rebecca A. Johnson, Phd, RN,

FAAN et al. looked at AAT’s effect on mood, fatigue, self-perceived health, and sense of coherence among cancer patients

(Oncology Nursing Forum 35(2) 2008)

The StudyThe Study

Participants were those undergoing radiation therapy

3 groups of randomly assigned

Experimental group 15 minute sessions 3 times per week for 4

weeks visiting dog and handler Human Visit Group

As above, but visiting with a person instead of dog

Silent Reading Group As above, magazines were issued to

group

The treatments were administered just prior to radiation therapy

They following were assessed at 2 points: Mood sense of coherence

The ability for a person to successfully endure stressful life events such as illness)

self-perceived health

OutcomesOutcomes Overall, the Experimental

Group Scored higher on sense of

coherence Rated their health and emotion

well-being higher Viewed their health as improved

over the 4 week period

These investigations provide support These investigations provide support for the benefits of the human-animal for the benefits of the human-animal

bondbond

Today, animals (especially Today, animals (especially dogs) have been used as a dogs) have been used as a means of therapy to assist means of therapy to assist

people in coping with illness people in coping with illness and disability.and disability.

Animal SelectionAnimal Selection PALS (Pet Access League

Society) Non-profit, registered, charitable

organization Dedicated to enhancing the quality

of life of individuals in need who can benefit from the known value of the human-animal bond

Visitation programs: seniors care facilities,

schools, hospitals, and Hospice Calgary

EligibilityEligibility Interview and screening process

Obedience Temperament Behavioural characteristics

The animal needs to be interested in people more than their environment.

The animal must complete a certain number of visits per month to maintain membership.

Clearances & Clearances & InsuranceInsurance

Police and Child Welfare clearance

PALS carries liability policy to cover the animal and owner

Personal liability insurance can be used as an adjunct but is not mandatory

VaccinationVaccination

As part of the agreement with hospitals and health facilities, yearly proof of rabies and updated immunizations must be provided.

Both an annual health certification and assessment must be completed and signed off by a participating veterinarian.

Animals must be bathed on a regular basis as well a screened for enteric pathogens, and treated for internal and external parasites on a monthly basis to minimize zoonotic incidents.

All animals are rescreened by Pals after 5 years. If the animal develops a chronic medical

condition then it needs to withdraw from the program unless a veterinarian permits its participation.

Open Dialogue