1. Module 2
Benefits and Research

2. Benefits Lowered blood pressure and heart rate; calming influence
Higher pain tolerance
Increase motivation
Improved social interactions and communications

3. Benefits Continued Decrease aggression and agitation
Decreased muscle rigidity
Psychological benefits: improved self-esteem, greater feelings of security, reduced stress and anxiety
More home like environment

4. Evidence Based Research
Occupational Therapy Incorporating Animals for Children with Autism: a pilot investigation
2 forms of therapy
Therapy sessions focused on facilitating sensory integration, language use, sensory skills, and motor skills
Results: therapy with animals, children had significantly greater use of language and social interaction
(Sams, Fortney, & Willenbring,2005)

5. Evidence Based Research
Animal-Assisted Therapy for Persons with Aphasia
Participants attended one semester of traditional therapy and one semester of animal assisted therapy
Results: AAT sessions more motivation, lighter atmosphere, more enjoyable and less stressful
(Macauley, 2006)

6. Evidence Based Research
Animal-Assisted Therapy for Children with Pervasive Developmental Disorders
Children were exposed to three different conditions: therapy with a nonsocial toy, a stuffed dog, and a live dog
Results: children exhibited a more playful mood, were more focused, and were more aware of their social environment when in the presence of a therapy dog
(Martin & Farnum, 2002)

7. Evidence Based Research
Using a therapy dog to alleviate the agitation and desocialization of people with Alzheimer’s disease
Each participant participated in two thirty minute sessions of researcher alone or researcher with a dog
Results: significantly less agitated/aggressive behaviors and more social behaviors when the dog was present
(Churchill, Safaoui, McCabe, & Baun,1999)

8. Evidence Based Research
Service Dog Training Program for Treatment of Posttraumatic Stress in Service Members
Wounded warriors participating in the training of service dogs that would then go to a veteran in need
Results: relief from PTSD symptoms, increase in patience, impulse control, emotional regulation, improved sleep, decreased depression and pain medication, and lower stress levels
(Young, Olmert, & Lee, 2012)

9. Occupational Therapist’s Views on AAT
Resident and Therapist Views of AAT: Implications for Occupational Therapy Practice
Physical benefits
Actively recalling memories related to personal pets
Increased alertness and cognitive ability
Smiles persistently throughout session
Anticipating the next session
Improved social interaction
Home like environment
(Velde, Cipriani, & Fisher, 2005)

10. You have now finished module 2 please proceed to module 3
End of Module 2
You have now finished module 2 please proceed to module 3