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- Service Dogs: A Catalyst for Post-Traumatic Growth Among Military Veterans
with PTSD
Authors: Matthew P. Knight
Abstract: The conclusion of the war in Afghanistan in 2021 has left a significant portion of veterans grappling with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), with estimates suggesting 23% of post-9/ 11 veterans are affected. Traditional psychotherapies, while effective, often see high attrition rates due to stigma-related barriers, underscoring the need for complementary approaches that resonate with the unique psychosocial needs embedded in military veteran culture.Historically, research on psychiatric service dogs has focused predominantly on PTSD symptom alleviation. This conceptual article introduces a novel focus on their role in promoting positive psychological change known as post-traumatic growth (PTG), a topic that has not been explored to the author’s knowledge. This study highlights the multifaceted contributions of service dogs in fostering PTG through the five domains of PTG: improved relationships with others, new possibilities, a greater appreciation for life, a greater sense of personal strength, and new perspectives on spiritual and existential issues.The findings from this study reveal that service dogs profoundly catalyze growth among veterans with PTSD in the following themes: providing emotional support through companionship, enhancing interpersonal relationships, reducing social isolation, reshaping core beliefs, and reinforcing a sense of purpose. Importantly, the study demonstrates that veterans can achieve notable positive growth and transformation, even while navigating the ongoing symptoms of PTSD, through the support of service dogs.By extending the focus beyond mere symptom management, service dogs are shown to offer a comprehensive support system that enhances traditional therapy, potentially increasing treatment adherence and efficacy. This research advocates for the integration of service dogs into therapeutic frameworks for PTSD, emphasizing their pivotal role not just as adjuncts but as central facilitators of healing and growth.
PubDate: Fri, 02 Aug 2024 06:40:46 PDT
- Developing a Connection to Nature: The Role of Pet Ownership in Childhood
Authors: Alexia Barrable et al.
Abstract: Connection to nature is associated with a range of benefits to well-being in both childhood and adulthood. Childhood experiences seem to play a big role in how adult nature connection develops. Among the many predictors of higher connection to nature, relationships with animals, including pets, likely play an important role in facilitating feelings of closeness with nature. In this paper we present two survey studies, one of children (n = 64, age = 6–16 years) and one of adults (n = 356, age = 18–80 years). Our aim was to find out if children who own pets have a higher level of connection to nature, as well as whether adults who owned pets in childhood have higher mean levels of connection to nature in adulthood than those who did not own pets. We also examined the relationship that level of engagement with childhood pets might have with nature connection. We did not find a significant difference in mean levels of connection to nature in either children or adults who own(ed) pets in childhood compared to those who did not. For adults, level of engagement with a childhood pet was associated with later nature connection; however, this relationship was not significant in children. These findings suggest that merely owning a pet in childhood might not be enough to encourage a strong connection to nature; rather, in line with the pets as ambassadors theory, active engagement and involvement in the care of childhood pets could be most important in facilitating this relationship. To build relationships with nature during formative childhood years, children could be encouraged to engage with and care for household pets.
PubDate: Wed, 10 Jul 2024 05:45:44 PDT
- The Effectiveness of Individual and Group Canine-Assisted Interventions in
Improving Mental Health in Higher Education Students
Authors: Karen Manville et al.
Abstract: The main aim of this study was to identify whether the social environment of canine-assisted intervention (CAI) influenced the beneficial effects on higher education (HE) students’ mental health. A second aim explored whether attachment style predicted the effect of being part of a CAI group. Sixty-seven participants interacted with a canine for two minutes, either individually, as part of a pair, or as a trio. Anxiety, stress, depression, and well-being were measured pre and post intervention, alongside attachment style. The results found no difference in the effectiveness of CAI when taking part individually, in pairs, or in a trio, meaning the social environment of CAI had no impact on the beneficial effects of CAI. Additionally, attachment style had no impact on the effectiveness of CAI when taking part in a trio. However, when taking part individually, a proximity seeking style predicted post depression, and in pairs, an insecure mistrust attachment style predicted post cheerfulness and feeling loved, and both insecure mistrust and proximity seeking styles predicted post confidence and relaxation. Overall, this study used a CAI group environment to explore the differences between taking part in CAI individually, in a pair, or as a trio in HE students and demonstrated that the social environment of CAI had no impact on its effectiveness in reducing anxiety, stress, and depression levels, or increasing well-being in the treatment group.
PubDate: Thu, 27 Jun 2024 09:16:56 PDT
- A Comprehensive Analysis of How Pet Ownership Impacts the Experiences and
Well-Being of Homeless Individuals
Authors: Alexandra G. Watson et al.
Abstract: This paper conducts a thorough examination of the relationship between pet ownership and homelessness. In a context where homelessness in the United States is a growing concern, we delve into an aspect that has received little attention: how homeless individuals and their pets interact. Through an extensive review of existing research, this paper aims to uncover the demographic characteristics of homeless pet owners and understand the significant effects of this bond. Our findings reveal that homeless individuals with pets come from diverse backgrounds, including various ages, genders, and racial backgrounds. Their pets provide not only companionship but also emotional support, improved physical health, and a deterrent against criminal behavior. Homeless pet owners often prioritize their pets’ well-being, showing the depth of their attachment. However, pet ownership among the homeless comes with challenges. These individuals face barriers to accessing necessary medical care, encounter difficulties finding shelters that allow pets, and sometimes choose to stay on the streets to remain with their pets. They also face discrimination from their communities, which compounds their existing difficulties. This research identifies gaps in the existing literature and suggests areas for further investigation. Future studies should examine the well-being of homeless-owned pets, the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on homelessness and pet ownership, and the effectiveness of shelters that accommodate pets and mobile health care services. Addressing these gaps will enhance our understanding of the complex relationship between pet ownership and homelessness and improve support services and policies for this vulnerable population.
PubDate: Thu, 27 Jun 2024 09:16:48 PDT
- Effects and Nursing Considerations for Equine-Assisted Activities and
Therapies for Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders: A Literature Review
Authors: Namiko Kawamura et al.
Abstract: This literature review aimed to analyze the effects and nursing challenges associated with equine-assisted activities and therapies (EAATs) for children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD). The study utilized the PubMed, CINAHL, and MEDLINE databases to identify 24 relevant articles. The effective contents were classified into two major categories: effects on interpersonal relationships, and effects attributable to the physical and emotional aspects of the lives of the children. The medical staff involved were mainly occupational therapists, followed by physical therapists and speech-language pathologists. The included studies also mention the involvement of trained equine therapists and volunteers, but not the involvement of nurses.Considering the unique characteristics of EAATs in various settings and the individual needs of the recipients of the therapy, this study highlights the importance of tailoring therapy to individual needs. Nurses should be aware of the potential benefits of EAATs in improving the overall well-being of children with ASD and should consider collaborating with other health care professionals to provide comprehensive care.
PubDate: Thu, 30 May 2024 07:31:04 PDT
- Pawsitive Training: A Preliminary Investigation of Animal-Assisted
Counseling Competencies in a University-Based Training Program
Authors: Elizabeth Kjellstrand Hartwig et al.
Abstract: With the proliferation of counselors interested in animal-assisted counseling (AAC), the need for quality AAC training programs is essential. AAC training programs should seek to provide comprehensive training that is specifically targeted to the mental health profession, promotes human and animal wellness, and is aligned with current AAC competencies. The purpose of this study was to identify the efficacy of an AAC training program. This study measured practitioners’ knowledge, skills, and attitudes before and after the training program utilizing a researcher-developed survey instrument based on current AAC competencies. Overall, outcomes identified that practitioners’ knowledge, skills, and attitudes of AAC significantly increased after the training program was completed. The findings indicated that an AAC training program providing AAC knowledge training, skills practice, and clinical experience aligned with current competence guidelines can increase professional capabilities and promote competent practice in the AAC field.
PubDate: Tue, 14 May 2024 08:51:02 PDT
- Animal-Assisted Services and Occupational Therapy within an Australian
Context: A Survey Study
Authors: Jessica Hill et al.
Abstract: Introduction: The incorporation of animal-assisted services is an emerging field of occupational therapy. There remains varying levels of involvement and knowledge of what is involved in animal-assisted services among Australian occupational therapists. The profession of occupational therapy acknowledges that competence as a clinician requires appropriate education and knowledge guiding clinical decision making.
Research Question: This study aimed to explore the understanding and role of Australian occupational therapists including animal-assisted services in their practice, as well as the changes required to support future service delivery.
Methods: A cross sectional survey was conducted online. Participants were recruited through a digital mailing list, snowball sampling, and through a link published in the professional association newsletters. The survey consisted of short and multiple-answer questions and a 5-point Likert scale to identify therapist understanding and engagement in animal-assisted services and future practice supports needed. Data was analyzed using descriptive statistics. Open-ended responses were analyzed using content analysis.
Results: A total of 53 participants completed the survey. Approximately 50% of participants identified having some engagement in animal-assisted services; however, most acknowledged having low to moderate understanding of the field. Across all categories, participants identified that the key barriers to fulfilling their role within animal-assisted services included insufficient training and lack of understanding of the role. The top priorities to support occupational therapists in animal-assisted services included risk assessments, practice standards, and ethical guidelines for practice.
PubDate: Thu, 11 Apr 2024 10:25:57 PDT
- “My Dog Needs a Job”: Identifying the Motivations of Therapy
Animal Volunteers
Authors: Jean Kirnan et al.
Abstract: Volunteers provide billions of hours in free labor annually and are essential for the success of many organizations. Understanding who volunteers as well as the motivating factors that attract and retain volunteers is critical. This study explored the motivations of therapy animal volunteers (TAVs) identifying commonality with general volunteerism as well as unique motivators. Respondents were 748 TAVs with Pet Partners who completed an online survey. The Volunteer Functions Inventory (VFI) was used to allow comparisons to prior research. Supplemental items specific to animal handler motivation were added to the 30 VFI items. Additionally, participants responded to an open-ended question regarding their motivations to volunteer. In agreement with the published research, the strongest motivators on the original VFI scale were Values, Enhancement, and Understanding. Supplemental items specific to one’s pet were rated higher than any of the six VFI functions. Responses to the open-ended question were coded into the six VFI functions but also revealed unique motivations related to the volunteer’s animal. “Pet Benefits Others” was cited most frequently and “Opportunity to Work with Pet” was the third strongest open-ended theme after Values. Like other volunteers, TAVs are strongly motivated by Values; however, additional motivators regarding unique attributes or relationships with one’s animal are also strong or stronger. Some gender and age differences were observed in VFI ratings and rankings, providing confirmation of the published literature. Respondents were mostly female, White, older, and highly educated, agreeing with the demographics of mainstream volunteers and animal handlers.
PubDate: Fri, 22 Mar 2024 09:22:08 PDT
- “There’s a connection that is just beyond words”: A Qualitative
Study of Therapy Dogs in a Child Trauma Assessment Center
Authors: Angela M. Moe
Abstract: The utilization of animal-assisted interventions with trauma survivors is a growing field of practice and research. This study explored staff perceptions of the impact of therapy dogs in comprehensive neurodevelopmental assessments of children who have experienced significant maltreatment. Such victimization causes devastating and long-term consequences across physical, cognitive, emotional, and behavioral domains. Trauma assessments have been used as a means of understanding the impacts of maltreatment and in guiding treatment. Following a go-along qualitative approach, the study occurred over 16 months wherein experienced therapy dogs were incorporated into assessments of 323 children. Data were collected through field interviews and participant observation. Inductive analysis generated four primary themes: rapport, regulation, respite, and restoration. Rapport involved establishing camaraderie with children at the start of the assessments, helping provide a sense of safety within the clinical environment. Regulation occurred throughout the various components of the assessment, wherein the dogs provided emotional, cognitive, and physical comfort throughout testing. Respite outside of testing was provided via rest and play. Finally, the dogs helped restore emotional and physical balance for children at the end of assessments, aiding their transition back to daily activities. Overall, the therapy dogs contributed to the ease, efficiency, and quality of the trauma assessments.
PubDate: Wed, 14 Feb 2024 12:15:46 PST
- Animal Assisted Play Therapy® for Childhood Animal Abuse Following
Exposure to Family Violence: A Case Example
Authors: Katharine Wenocur et al.
Abstract: Intentional harm to nonhuman animals in childhood often correlates with histories of witnessing, experiencing, or perpetrating violence. Without appropriate intervention, children and adolescents who abuse animals following exposure to family violence risk long-term behavioral health challenges. While some treatment models have been specifically designed to reduce the risk of future violence among children displaying this behavior, interventions involving nonhuman animals represent a novel approach and show promise in addressing behavioral challenges associated with this behavior. Framed through the lens of a clinical case study, this article presents the potential benefits of implementing Animal Assisted Play Therapy® to treat symptoms of trauma and attachment challenges when harm to animals has occurred.
PubDate: Wed, 14 Feb 2024 07:06:06 PST
- Impact of Equine Interaction during Psychotherapy on Anxiety and
Depression for Residential Treatment Program Patients Experiencing
Substance Withdrawal
Authors: Molly M. Friend et al.
Abstract: As incidences of substance use disorders (SUD) increase in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, there is a need for more effective treatment approaches. Further, treatment approaches currently available struggle to retain patients during the period of substance withdrawal in early treatment due to patients’ withdrawal symptoms including increased feelings of anxiety and depression. Withdrawal symptoms have been linked to dysregulated cortisol concentrations present in this period. Psychotherapy incorporating equine interaction (PIE) has emerged in other populations as a treatment that decreases cortisol concentrations and improves treatment retention. The present study investigated the impact of 4 weeks of PIE on 10 (n = 10) withdrawing patients in a residential substance abuse treatment program. A survey instrument consisting of 17 questions tracking perceived anxiety and depression was given prior to the first week of PIE and at the end of the fourth week of PIE. On weeks 1 and 4 of PIE, heart rate and salivary cortisol measures were taken. Paired t-tests were performed to determine differences in survey responses and the mixed procedure was used to determine differences in heart rate and cortisol concentrations. The Spearman correlation was used to determine the association between survey responses and heart rate and cortisol measures. Significance was considered at P ≤ 0.05 and tendencies were reported at P ≤ 0.1. Significant improvements were seen in 24% of the survey questions analyzing nervousness (P = 0.01), control of worry (P = 0.05), trouble relaxing (P = 0.02), and irritability (P = 0.04), and tendencies toward improvements in another 17% of measures concerning control of one’s life (P = 0.10), worry (P = 0.10), and fear (P = 0.10). Patient heart rates were higher following the fourth week of PIE compared to the first week of PIE (P = 0.02), and no significant changes in cortisol concentrations were seen (P = 0.20). These results, in addition to therapist observations of limited activity levels in the first week of treatment, indicate potential increased activity and participation through the 4 weeks of PIE. This improvement is in addition to improvements in survey responses associated with severity of depression and anxiety during the withdrawal period, indicating PIE’s effectiveness in SUD treatment.
PubDate: Thu, 08 Feb 2024 09:10:56 PST
- “Here, Kitty, Kitty.” Community Perceptions of Free-Roaming Cats: A
Northern Canadian Case Study
Authors: Annie Booth et al.
Abstract: Free-roaming domestic cats (Felis catus) create controversy, due to their tendency to invade neighbors’ gardens, hunt wildlife, and create disturbances. Municipal governments are often under pressure to address concerns regarding free-roaming cats. As approximately 28% of the 8.8 million cats owned in Canada free-roam (are allowed outside unsupervised and unconstrained), understanding owner rationales for letting the cat out is important for officials tasked with addressing public concerns. In 2019, we studied attitudes toward cats within a north-central British Columbia, Canada, city. The rationales cat owners use to justify free-roaming, as well as their perceptions about the risks and benefits of this decision are discussed. While a majority of non–cat owners (and former owners) were concerned about free-roaming cats, current cat owners were not. While our research suggests that many cat owners are conflicted about letting their cats out, those so doing are committed despite recognizing the risks to their cat, wildlife, and relationships with their neighbors. This suggests that education is likely ineffective. Our research suggests that owners are unlikely to be motivated by poorly enforced bylaws or conservation concerns. Instead, outreach that focuses upon the risk to free-roaming cats might be more persuasive. In conjunction with the survey, we also conducted a limited field trial of the BirdsbeSafe cat collars to determine their effectiveness in limiting predation on birds. While a small sample was obtained, our results demonstrate that the collars do limit bird predation by owned cats.
PubDate: Thu, 08 Feb 2024 09:10:49 PST
- Pets in Practice: A Practical Guide to the Introduction of Dogs to Mental
Health Work Settings Derived from the Direct Experiences of Staff
Authors: Tatiana (Tia Urgasova et al.
Abstract: The aim of this study was to evaluate the introduction of dogs in mental health workplace settings: specifically, exploring staff perspectives on the acceptability of dogs in mental health teams; the impact of the dogs on themselves directly, their patients, and their team; and the challenges of implementing dogs in mental health settings. This qualitative study design used semi-structured interviews. Twelve participants were interviewed; six from a Crisis Assessment and Treatment team, five from a Recovery College team, and one from the Inpatient and Outreach Psychiatric Service. Interviews were transcribed and six key themes were identified: facilitating staff well-being, improving workplace morale, facilitating communication, impact on dog owner, environmental challenges, and improving perceptions of dogs. These findings informed Pets in Practice—A Practical Guide for Dogs in Healthcare.This study demonstrates the benefits of a dog for staff well-being and working practices in mental health settings. Furthermore, it provides a practical guide to implementing such an intervention and managing the practical challenges of having a dog in a work environment. A policy relating to visiting animals that refers to points raised in the practical guide is recommended for health care settings implementing this intervention.
PubDate: Thu, 08 Feb 2024 08:40:52 PST
- Proposal of a Private Caretaker-Completed Questionnaire to Assess the
Suitability of Domestic Cats for Animal-Assisted Interventions
Authors: Alina Simona Rusu et al.
Abstract: The objective of this study was to develop a caretaker-completed questionnaire entitled “Cats’ Behavioral Suitability for Animal-Assisted Interventions” (CatSAAI), covering two categories of items associated with seven feline personality factors. These feline personality factors were previously identified and validated by Mikkola et al. (2021) on a large sample of domestic cat guardians. The aim of the CatSAAI questionnaire is to facilitate the interpretation of the behavioral suitability or unsuitability of each individual cat for inclusion in feline-assisted interventions, while considering the prevention of stress and risks in AAI settings for both people and animals. The tool was proposed by an international team of experts in animal behavior and AAI practitioners within the Erasmus+ Project “Animals for People,” which involves partners from Poland, Switzerland, Norway, and Romania. The process of the elaboration of the CatSAAI questionnaire included three steps: (1) grouping of the items identified by Mikkola et al. (2021) in two categories: suitability and unsuitability of cats for AAI; (2) analysis (psychometric and correlational analyses) of the responses of initially collected data from 51 private cat caretakers from six countries, and (3) elimination of several items based on statistical outcomes and expert validation and elaboration of the final form of the survey. The final version of the suitability category contains 28 items belonging to the feline personality factors: activity/playfulness (14 items), sociability toward humans (13 items), and sociability toward cats (1 item), while the unsuitability category consists of 16 items belonging to the following feline personality factors: aggression toward humans (10), fearfulness (3), excessive grooming (2), and activity/playfulness (1).
PubDate: Mon, 05 Feb 2024 13:00:52 PST
- Feasibility Study of an Equine-Assisted Learning Intervention for Children
with Disabilities
Authors: Laura Hopson et al.
Abstract: Interest in equine-assisted learning (EAL) has grown rapidly among behavioral health professionals. The available research on the effects of EAL are limited, sparse, and mostly exploratory in nature. In this feasibility study, we evaluated the effectiveness of an EAL intervention, the Just Ask Yourself to Care (JAYC) program, for youth with disabilities. The eight-week JAYC curriculum is psycho-educational, strength-based, and resiliency-focused. We hypothesized that participation in the JAYC program would lead to improvement in social skills, empathy, and self-confidence.
Children with disabilities (n = 25) at two sites participated in a feasibility study of implementation and evaluation procedures. Before and after completing the curriculum, children completed two measures, the Self-Efficacy Scale and the Basic Empathy Scale. Parents of participants completed the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ). Program facilitators completed a fidelity checklist of activities completed during each session. All surveys were self-administered.
The findings demonstrated the feasibility of implementing the JAYC program with fidelity and evaluating the program using the SDQ surveys with parents. The analysis of SDQ data indicates promising trends, although changes were not statistically significant. Specifically, parents reported small improvements in conduct problems, peer problems, prosocial behavior, and internalizing symptoms. In the case of prosocial behavior, scores improved to be consistent with normative scores from a national sample. Children’s scores on the Self-Efficacy Questionnaire indicated statistically significant improvement in self-efficacy.
PubDate: Fri, 17 Nov 2023 08:30:45 PST
- It’s Not Paradise for the Dogs and Shelter Workers: Dog Welfare and
Occupational Stress in Animal Shelters in Hawaii
Authors: Lynn Morrison
Abstract: Dog welfare and occupational stress of animal shelter workers at two sites on Hawaii Island were examined. The east side had higher euthanasia rates than the west side. The two sites are in locales that differ culturally and economically. The goal of this study is to (1) elucidate how dog culture differs at the two sites and how those differences affect the health of dogs, and (2) assess the stress levels of shelter workers who must simultaneously care for the dogs while often having to euthanize them. Interviews and cortisol were obtained from the shelter workers and cortisol was obtained from the shelter dogs. Cortisol is a stress hormone that can be measured in human and dog hair. The shelter workers and dogs in the east side of the island’s high-euthanasia shelter had significantly higher cortisol rates than their counterparts in the west side’s lower euthanasia shelter (t = 6.051, df = 13, p = 0.001 for the shelter workers and t = 2.412, df = 42, p = 0.010 for the dogs). Traditional and contemporary attitudes toward dogs as commodities to be kept as guard dogs or for hunting do not include spaying/neutering, resulting in unsustainably high numbers of discarded dogs entering shelters. Shelter employees care for animals that they are then forced to euthanize, referred to as the “caring-killing paradox.” Shelter workers consequently withstand the worst of negative public perceptions of the high euthanasia rate for what is in actuality a community problem. I suggest that differing cultures of attitudes toward dogs negatively affect the health and welfare of both shelter employees and dogs. Decreasing the dog overpopulation through spaying/neutering and a cultural shift in the attitude toward dogs would improve the health and well-being of the dogs and the shelter workers.
PubDate: Mon, 13 Nov 2023 13:15:38 PST
- Service Dogs: A Scoping Review of Interdisciplinary Research
Authors: K. Lynn Pierce et al.
Abstract: Despite a long history of service dogs (SDs) being paired with human partners as a systematic intervention and increasing numbers of and roles for SDs, there remains a lack of empirical knowledge and professional guidance regarding the implementation of SDs into treatment plans for individuals with disabilities. The purpose of this scoping review was to review the peer-reviewed literature specific to SDs and their handlers, to identify successful search term strategies, and to determine in what disciplines research is being conducted. Terminology used in referring to service dogs continues to be a challenge. Through a series of preliminary searches, search terms and search methodologies were established and 259 articles published from 1958 through 2019 were identified, reviewed, and coded. Identified articles were further categorized into those describing knowledge and context, management and health care, handler and team elements, and a combination of these factors. Because many of the identified articles focused specifically on guide dogs and teams, articles were further coded and grouped on SD type (e.g., guide dog, hearing dog, autism support dog, etc.). Much of the current literature focuses on history, legal and policy discussions, and the health and management of service dogs. Relatively few articles (24) have been published specifically on service dog teams and handler support, and all of those identified were specific to guide dogs. Gaps in research were identified, including areas such as cross-discipline research, diverse disability demographics of handlers, types of service dogs, and the mental state of SDs themselves. While the literature is expanding on the topic of SDs (over half of the articles were published in the past 6 years of the search time frame), continued research is needed, particularly in the area of SD handler experiences and guidelines for service providers.
PubDate: Wed, 13 Sep 2023 08:00:42 PDT
- Who Is the Good Boy/Girl' Perspectives of French Handlers in AAI on
the Selection of Their Dogs
Authors: Alice Mignot et al.
Abstract: Animal-assisted interventions (AAI) are well implemented in various health care settings; however, there is little data on the characteristics of the mediation dogs and their selection, which can influence the well-being of both the dogs and the beneficiaries. This study aims to gain a better understanding of the characteristics of French mediation dogs and the context in which they are selected to guide future research working on behavioral criteria for mediation dogs and help provide a basis for better selection of dogs in the field. To this end, we interviewed 111 French handlers in AAI, who work with at least one dog, through an online questionnaire about their professional backgrounds, the characteristics of their mediation dogs, and their views of the favorable and prohibitive criteria for a mediation dog. We also examined handlers’ representations of the context of selection of their mediation dog(s). Our data highlighted that (1) mediation dogs do not represent a homogeneous category regarding the age they started to work in AAI, their current ages, their certifications, and their breeds; and that (2) this may be related to the fact that the process of selecting mediation dogs includes the variability of the therapeutic settings as well as the professional backgrounds of the handlers and their personal affinities for a type of dog. There was also variability in handlers’ representations of the favorable and prohibitive criteria for the mediation dogs but with a convergence toward a sociable dog with self-control. The selection of mediation dogs in France requires an individual choice that considers each human–dog team in their relationship and in the context of their work.
PubDate: Fri, 25 Aug 2023 10:35:44 PDT
- Impact of COVID-19 on Service Dog Organizations
Authors: Danny Benbassat et al.
Abstract: The 2019 coronavirus pandemic led to federal, state, and local measures that paralyzed businesses across the nation. Among them were behavioral and mental health nonprofit organizations. The purpose of this study was to understand the impact of the pandemic on nonprofit programs that train and place service dogs with veterans/service members. Six service dog managers completed eight reflection probe questionnaires and participated in three focus groups. This study found that facility shutdown, businesses shutdown, and social distancing resulted in a training bottleneck for both canines and humans. These primary challenges created secondary and tertiary challenges that mirror and lend support to themes found in other studies, namely funding, welfare, and space. In addition to these challenges, managers found opportunities in the face of adversity, namely partnerships, flexibility, and innovation. This study also adds 45 specific opportunities as a practical guide for animal-assisted activities managers. The authors hope that this guide will introduce innovative solutions to improve normal operations and help mitigate the consequences of future crises.
PubDate: Thu, 17 Aug 2023 08:50:37 PDT
- The COVID Whirlwind on the Veterinary World: End-of-life Care and
Euthanasia During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Elizabeth Chalmers et al.
Abstract: Veterinary providers experience job-specific psychological stress from their dual role in both providing medical care to pets and supporting pet-owner clients through end-of-life care and the euthanasia process, contributing to compassion fatigue and burnout in the field. COVID-19 has impacted the provision of veterinary care and affected communication between providers and pet owners. This qualitative study explores the experiences of veterinary providers who provided end-of- life care and performed euthanasia during the COVID-19 pandemic. Participants for this qualitative study were recruited and interviewed using criterion sampling from four veterinary practices in the northeastern United States. Inductive thematic analysis was used to interpret the data collected. Significant findings include: veterinary staff are overwhelmed by the spike in animal care due to increased pet ownership during COVID-19, changes in provision of care have created additional stressors in veterinary medicine, veterinary providers feel “emotionally distanced” from their clients, and veterinary providers recognize a need for increased mental health support in the field.
PubDate: Wed, 26 Jul 2023 09:50:37 PDT
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