The use of therapy animals dates back as early as 12.000 years ago based on fossil history. Yet, research into the actual benefits and appropriate applications of animal-assisted therapy is relatively new. It is well known that the relationship between dogs and humans has allowed both species not only to live together, but also thrive. The special relationship between dogs and humans makes dogs, as a species, one of the best choices to be effectively used in therapeutic settings. This talk will cover some of the historical aspects of the dog-human relationship, animal (dog) assisted therapy, how it developed, and what is currently known about the use of dogs in a wide variety of therapeutic settings. It will address current research and the gaps in research surrounding animal assisted therapies. Also addressed will be correct terminology for the wide variety of animal assisted interventions (AAI), including where, why and how they should be used. Lastly, the effect on providers of AAI, both for the handler and the dog, including potential welfare concerns.

Sponsor:e-trainingfordogs.com
Speaker(s):Patricia Tirrell

Contact: Cheryl Aguiar
 Email: cheryl@e-trainingfordogs.com
 Phone: 970-231-9965
 Web: http://wwwhttp/e-trainingfordogs.com/