🐾 Animal Assisted Intervention (AAI)🐾

There has been an increased use of animals assisted interventions (AAI) across different settings, especially in dogs-assisted intervention. Research has shown a positive effects in dogs-assisted intervention in different psychological disorders among young and adult patients, particular in increasing motivation and task performance, as well as improving mood and reducing anxiety. 

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🐾 AAT vs AAA🐾

While AAI is a broad term that is used to describe the utilization of animals in different interventions, AAT and AAA are both examples of the different types of animal  assisted interventions. 

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Animal Assisted Therapy (AAT) refers to a goal-directed intervention in which the animal is an integral part of the treatment process where animal will extend and facilitate the therapeutic or clinical goals. AAT includes an individualized educational plan and the process is documented and evaluated. Sessions can be provided in 1-1 and group settings by healthcare professionals.

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Examples of AAT:

• Social skills group  

• 1-1 sessions 

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Animal Assisted Activities (AAA) refers to short and usually one-off session with activities planned designed to provide recreational, educational, or therapeutical benefits for everyone. AAA sessions are less structured and animal's role is less defined. AAA may simply achieve a positive environment to help individual feels good. Visits can be delivered under a variety of settings by professionals and trained volunteers. 

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Examples of AAA:

• Social events with therapy dog (e.g.  Palloween Party)  

• School visits

• Meet and Greet

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What are some benefits of AAT/AAA?

• Increases motivation and acts as catalyst in therapy process

• Increases self-esteem

• Reduces pain and discomfort  

• Decreases stress and anxiety 

• Encourages greater use of language and social communication 

• Promotes and encourages social interaction and play skills

• Fosters empathy and perspective taking 

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