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Animal Assisted Intervention

Apply Our Dog Therapy

  • Days: Tuesdays & Thursdays

    Time: 4:30 - 6:00PM

    Venue: Rise Wise Center (Central)

    Fees: $605/class

    1 - 1 Lessons Available Upon Request

Enjoy 10% discount if you get a 10-classes package

For more information

Rise Wise provides an Individualised 1:1 Animal Assisted Intervention (AAI) and Social Groups for children with special needs. The AAI is designed by experienced Occupational Therapists and Behavioural Therapists specifically tailored for children with special needs. It is an intensive and comprehensive program that includes a trained therapy dog, a professional dog handler trained by an Occupational Therapist and an experienced Behavioral Therapist. The session will take place in the Occupational Therapy room at the Rise Wise Center in Sheung Wan.


The objective of the AAI program is to provide therapeutic benefits for the child, based on developing a positive relationship between the child and the therapy dog. Our program incorporates a therapy dog to develop skills in the following areas: Daily Living Skills, Language Skills, Social and Play Skills, Sensory Processing, Gross and Fine Motor Skills, Emotional Regulation, Organisational Skills and Problem-solving Skills.

Benefits

  • Improves Motivation & Attention

  • Improves Motor Skills & Whole Body Coordination

  • Improves Social Communication Skills & Cognitive Functioning

  • Builds Self-confidence, Empathy and Emotional Regulation Skills

Animal Assisted Intervention (AAI)

There has been an increased use of animal assisted interventions (AAI) across different settings i.e. among Children, Youth, Elderly and individuals who need mental health support. Research has shown positive effects in dog assisted intervention in different psychological disorders among young and adult patients, particularly in increasing motivation and task performance, as well as improving mood and reducing anxiety. 

AAT vs AAA

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


AAT refers to a goal-directed intervention in which the animal is an integral part of the treatment process, responsible for extending and facilitating the therapeutic or clinical goals. AAT includes an individualised educational plan and the process is documented and evaluated. sessions can be provided either 1-1, or in group settings, by healthcare professionals.


Examples of AAT:

  • Social skills group  

  • 1-1 sessions 


AAA refers to short and usually one-off sessions (not session), with activities planned and designed to provide recreational, educational, or therapeutic benefits for everyone. AAA sessions are less structured, and the animal’s role is less defined.  AAA may sometimes simply achieve a positive environment to help individuals feel good. Visits can be delivered under a variety of settings by professionals and trained volunteers. 


Examples of AAA:

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

  • School visits

  • Meet and Greet

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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