Pet-assisted therapy, also known as animal-assisted therapy (AAT) or pet therapy, is a form of care that involves using animals to help individuals cope with various physical, mental, emotional, and social conditions. The presence of trained animals in therapeutic settings has been shown to provide numerous benefits and promote overall well-being.
The use of animals in therapeutic settings has been traced back to ancient times. The Greeks, Romans, and Egyptians recognized the healing properties of animals and used them in their treatment. However, modern pet-assisted therapy began gaining recognition in the 19th century when Florence Nightingale observed that small pets helped improve the mood and overall well-being of patients in hospitals.
During the 20th century, the field of pet-assisted therapy gained momentum. The use of therapeutic animals has become more structured and organized. Dogs, cats, and horses are among the most commonly used animals for this purpose. Currently, pet-assisted therapy programs are found in various healthcare settings, including hospitals, nursing homes, rehabilitation centers, schools, and mental health facilities.
