Medical: Canine therapy for kids

Some hospitals across the U.S. use animals to help patients cope with their hospital stay. Sometimes animals are simply visitors, meeting a group of patients in a central area or spending time in a room. In animal-assisted therapy (AAT), an animal is used with a specific goal in mind and is an important “helper” in the treatment process.

According to the American Pet Products Association, 62 percent of American households have at least one pet. Since people are often comfortable and relaxed around animals, they sometimes make ideal therapy tools. Studies show animals can promote relaxation, ease anxiety and lower blood pressure and heart rate.

Children often have a special connection with animals. For young patients, an animal can bring some sense of normalcy to hospital routines, reduce stress levels and provide comfort and distraction during medical procedures (like needle sticks). Animals can also help a child feel less isolated.