Publication Date

1-1-2015

Document Type

Dissertation/Thesis

First Advisor

Dallas, Bryan K.

Degree Name

B.A. (Bachelor of Arts)

Legacy Department

School of Allied Health and Communicative Disorders

Abstract

The idea of animal-assisted therapy seems like it may be a new alternative of therapy, but in reality it dates back to ancient Egypt and dogs were considered sacred and used as a healing power (Fine, 2000). AAT is commonly used in Occupational Therapy where benefits can be identified physically, mentally, and emotionally. Using existing accredited research the benefits of the three health pillars will be analyzed to investigate whether or not AAT within Occupational therapy is beneficial to patients. AAT is not biased, any race, disability, and culture is able to use this form of alternative therapy (Winkle, 2012). It is important to note that an animal has a strong ability to understand our behaviors as well, which in return is able to create a trusting therapeutic relationship (Fine, 2000). Specifically dogs have such great skills in communication with humans because they have a predisposed ability to read our faces for important information, reassurance, and guidance (Fine, 2000). AAT is able to fulfill needs that money and economical resources cannot.

Extent

19 pages

Language

eng

Publisher

Northern Illinois University

Rights Statement

In Copyright

Rights Statement 2

NIU theses are protected by copyright. They may be viewed from Huskie Commons for any purpose, but reproduction or distribution in any format is prohibited without the written permission of the authors.

Media Type

Image||Text

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