Abstract
Abstract This study examined acceptance of animal-assisted interventions (AAIs) among Spanish psychologists (N = 332; mostly women). Participants reported attachment to animals, empathy, anthropomorphism, attitudes toward AAI, AAI knowledge, and intention to use AAI. Although less than 20% had AAI training, over 85% of participants were interested in using AAIs. Considering companion animals as human social equivalents and having specific AAI training were associated with more positive expectations of AAI, while personal distress was negatively associated. The variables influencing interest in developing AAI were positive attitudes, anthropomorphism, being female, and training, explaining 59% of the variance. Results showed that AAIs have high acceptance among psychology professionals, but interest in implementation was stronger when participants had positive attitudes toward AAI, showed high levels of anthropomorphism, and were female, rather than as a result of AAI training. Representing and publicizing AAIs as evidence-based treatments is important to enhance professional growth in the field.
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