Animal assisted therapy for children and adolescents with disabilities

Article type: Research Article

Authors: Poleshuck, Laura R.^;

Affiliations: Boston University, Sargent College of Allied Health Professions, 635 Commonwealth Avenue, Boston, MA 02215, USA

Note: [] Corresponding author. 138 Council Rock Avenue, Rochester, NY 14610, USA. Tel.: + 1 716 4429291.

Abstract: This article provides an overview of animal assisted therapy, or the use of animals as a treatment modality, specifically with children and adolescents. Animal assisted therapy is defined within the context of occupational therapy, and its benefits on the communicative, psychosocial, and academic/pre-vocational functioning of youths with disabilities are explored. The paper concludes with resources, including organizations specializing in the advancement of animal assisted therapy as well as literature explaining how to create and implement a program within one's existing practice.

Keywords: Communication, Psychosocial functioning, Academic/pre-vocational functioning

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-1997-9311

Journal: Work, vol. 9, no. 3, pp. 285-293, 1997