Animal-Assisted Intervention: A Beneficial Therapy in Occupational Therapy

Overview of Animal-Assisted Intervention (AAI)

Animal-assisted intervention (AAI) is a therapeutic approach that utilizes animals to enhance the well-being of individuals. AAI encompasses four key areas: animal-assisted activities (AAA), animal-assisted education (AAE), animal-assisted therapy (AAT), and animal-assisted crisis response (AACR).

AAI has gained significant recognition in various fields, including occupational therapy (OT). In OT, AAT is employed to foster positive relationships between animals and patients, aiming to improve psychological, emotional, and physical health outcomes.

Benefits of AAT in Occupational Therapy

Evidence suggests that AAT can provide numerous benefits in OT, including:

• Reduced stress and anxiety
• Improved mood and emotional regulation
• Enhanced social interaction and communication skills
• Increased physical activity and mobility

Training and Considerations for AAT

Individuals seeking to incorporate animals into their OT practice should undergo appropriate training, particularly in AAT. While OT education often does not include AAT training, specialized courses or workshops can provide the necessary knowledge and skills.