The Human-Animal Bond

Abstract

Animals, specifically pets and companion animals, can be used in therapeutic interactions with patients and families at the end of life and in bereavement, regardless of age or ability. Even clients with allergies can benefit from animal-assisted therapy as it can be performed with water animals, hairless animals and reptiles. Animal-assisted therapy is defined by pet partners as a “goal oriented, planned, structured and documented therapeutic intervention directed by health and human service providers as part of their profession”. The animal interaction is viewed as a necessary part of treatment and aids the client in meeting his or her therapeutic goals. Parish-Plass found that interactions with animals reduce anxiety, blood pressure and heart rate, which leads to a reduction in stress and an increase in the general sense of pleasure. In addition to the physical benefits gained from interactions with animals, a number of emotional and psychological benefits have been touted.