Animal Assisted Therapy

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Animal Assisted Therapy

Animal assisted therapy (AAT) is the use of trained therapy pets in treatment by a licensed clinician.  AAT is purposeful, goal directed, and documented.

 

 

Clinicians often use AAT because it is highly motivating and promotes a safe environment.  Animals are nonjudgmental and engaging which elicits improved concentration, attention, and learning.

 

 

Goals for integrating animal assisted therapy may include:

 

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  • Building trust between the client and therapist
  • Social interaction
  • Identifying and verbalizing feelings and emotions
  • Auditory comprehension
  • Verbal Expression
  • Improving cognition such as attention and memory
  • Learning new concepts
  • Reading
  • Fine and gross motor skills
  • Activities of daily living
  • Exercise and healthy habits