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Rodriguez KE, Graham DJ, Lucas-Thompson RG. The Effect of Mental Activation of One's Pet Dog on Stress Reactivity. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:6995. [PMID: 37947553 PMCID: PMC10648142 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20216995] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2023] [Revised: 10/20/2023] [Accepted: 10/22/2023] [Indexed: 11/12/2023]
Abstract
Research suggests that mental activation of human social support may reduce stress reactivity. However, the extent to which social support from pets elicits a similar effect has been less explored. This study aims to determine whether the mental activation of one's pet dog reduces stress reactivity to a subsequent experimental stressor. In a 2 × 2 design, 132 dog-owning participants (Mage = 20.14; 80% female) were randomly assigned to one of two mental activation conditions (pet dog; general) and one of two stressor conditions (social-evaluative; cognitive). Data were analyzed with two-way ANOVAs with self-reported (positive/negative affect, negative self-evaluation) and physiological (blood pressure, heart rate) dependent variables. Results indicated that participants randomized to the pet dog mental activation condition had smaller decreases in positive affect from baseline to post-stressor compared to the general mental activation condition. However, there were no significant interactions between time and mental activation condition on negative affect, negative self-evaluation, heart rate, or blood pressure. Thus, the mental activation of one's pet dog had a minimal effect on stress reactivity to a cognitive or social-evaluative stressor. Results suggest that the physical presence of an animal may be an essential mechanism underlying the benefits of animal-derived social support.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kerri E. Rodriguez
- Human-Animal Bond in Colorado, School of Social Work, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80523, USA;
| | - Dan J. Graham
- Department of Psychology, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80523, USA;
- Colorado School of Public Health, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80523, USA
| | - Rachel G. Lucas-Thompson
- Colorado School of Public Health, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80523, USA
- Department of Human Development and Family Studies, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80523, USA
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2
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Huber A, Klug SJ, Abraham A, Westenberg E, Schmidt V, Winkler AS. Animal-Assisted Interventions Improve Mental, But Not Cognitive or Physiological Health Outcomes of Higher Education Students: a Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. Int J Ment Health Addict 2022:1-32. [PMID: 36406903 PMCID: PMC9666958 DOI: 10.1007/s11469-022-00945-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Due to the high burden of mental health issues among students at higher education institutions world-wide, animal-assisted interventions (AAIs) are being used to relieve student stress. The objective of this study was to systematically review of the effects of AAIs on the mental, physiological, and cognitive outcomes of higher education students. Randomized controlled trials using any unfamiliar animal as the sole intervention tool were included in this review. Study quality was assessed using the Cochrane Risk-of-Bias tool. Where possible, effect sizes (Hedges' g) were pooled for individual outcomes using random-effects meta-analyses. Albatross plots were used to supplement the data synthesis. Of 2.494 identified studies, 35 were included. Almost all studies used dogs as the intervention animal. The quality of most included studies was rated as moderate. Studies showed an overall reduction of acute anxiety and stress. For other mental outcomes, studies showed smaller, but nonetheless beneficial effects. Studies showed no clear effect on physiological or cognitive outcomes. Strong methodological heterogeneity between studies limited the ability to draw clear conclusions. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s11469-022-00945-4.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annalena Huber
- Department of Sport and Health Sciences, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
- Department of Neurology, Center for Global Health, Klinikum Rechts der Isar, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Stefanie J. Klug
- Department of Sport and Health Sciences, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Annette Abraham
- Department of Neurology, Center for Global Health, Klinikum Rechts der Isar, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
- Centre for Global Health, Institute of Health and Society, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Erica Westenberg
- Department of Neurology, Center for Global Health, Klinikum Rechts der Isar, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Veronika Schmidt
- Department of Neurology, Center for Global Health, Klinikum Rechts der Isar, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
- Centre for Global Health, Institute of Health and Society, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Andrea S. Winkler
- Department of Neurology, Center for Global Health, Klinikum Rechts der Isar, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
- Centre for Global Health, Institute of Health and Society, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
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3
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Teo JT, Johnstone SJ, Römer SS, Thomas SJ. Psychophysiological mechanisms underlying the potential health benefits of human-dog interactions: A systematic literature review. Int J Psychophysiol 2022; 180:27-48. [PMID: 35901904 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpsycho.2022.07.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2022] [Revised: 06/22/2022] [Accepted: 07/19/2022] [Indexed: 10/16/2022]
Abstract
While the symbiotic nature of human-dog relationships and perceived benefits to human health have attracted much scientific interest, the mechanisms through which human-dog interactions may confer health benefits to humans are still poorly understood. The aim of this systematic literature review was to synthesize evidence of physiological changes associated with human-dog interactions with relevance to human health. Electronic databases were systematically searched (PubMed, MEDLINE with full text, Scopus, PsycINFO, CINAHL Plus with Full Text, and Web of Science Core Collection) for relevant studies. Of the 13,072 studies identified, 129 met the inclusion criteria, with approximately half being randomized trials (Level 2) based on the Oxford Centre for Evidence Based Medicine level system. Measures employed to study human physiological changes associated with human-dog interactions most commonly involved cardiac parameters and hormones, with negligible research of brain activity. The main positive findings were increases in heart rate variability and oxytocin, and decreases in cortisol with human-dog interactions. These physiological indicators are consistent with activation of the parasympathetic nervous system (PNS) and oxytocinergic system (OTS), and down-regulation of hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis activity. These results provide evidence of specific pathways through which human-dog contact may confer health benefits, likely through relaxation, bonding, and stress reduction. However, these findings should be interpreted contextually due to limitations and methodological differences. Previous research using other biological variables was limited in quantity and quality, thus impeding firm conclusions on other possible mechanisms. Further research is needed in some psychophysiological domains, particularly electroencephalography, to better understand central nervous system (CNS) effects. The findings of this review have implications for human-dog interactions to positively affect several stress-sensitive physiological pathways and thus confer health benefits. This supports their incorporation in various clinical, non-clinical, and research settings to develop evidence-based interventions and practices for cost-effective and efficacious ways to improve human health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jillian T Teo
- School of Psychology, Faculty of the Arts, Social Sciences and Humanities, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW 2522, Australia.
| | - Stuart J Johnstone
- School of Psychology, Faculty of the Arts, Social Sciences and Humanities, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW 2522, Australia.
| | - Stephanie S Römer
- School of Psychology, Faculty of the Arts, Social Sciences and Humanities, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW 2522, Australia.
| | - Susan J Thomas
- School of Medicine, Faculty of Science, Medicine and Health, Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute, University of Wollongong, 2522, Australia.
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Wagner C, Grob C, Hediger K. Specific and Non-specific Factors of Animal-Assisted Interventions Considered in Research: A Systematic Review. Front Psychol 2022; 13:931347. [PMID: 35837630 PMCID: PMC9274084 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2022.931347] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2022] [Accepted: 06/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Research on animal-assisted interventions (AAIs) has increased massively in the last few years. But it is still not clear how AAIs work and how important the animal is in such interventions. The aim of this systematic review was to compile the existing state of knowledge about the working mechanisms of AAIs. We searched 12 major electronic databases for previous AAI studies with active control groups. Of 2001 records identified, we included 172 studies in the systematic review. We extracted previously published hypotheses about working mechanisms and factors that have been implicitly considered specific or non-specific in AAI research by categorizing control conditions using content analysis. We analyzed the categories using descriptive statistics. We found that 84% of the included studies mentioned a hypothesis of working mechanisms, but 16% did not define specific hypotheses. By analyzing their control conditions, we found that in most controlled studies, the animal or the interaction with the animal was implicitly considered as a specific factor for the effects of the AAI. Non-specific factors such as therapeutic aspects, social interactions, or novelty have also been controlled for. We conclude that AAI research still cannot answer the question of how and why AAIs work. To address this important research gap, we suggest using component studies with innovative control conditions and results from placebo research to address both the specific and non-specific, contextual factors of AAIs to disentangle its mechanisms. Systematic Review Registration https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?RecordID=158103, identifier: CRD42020158103.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cora Wagner
- Division of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Faculty of Psychology, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Carmina Grob
- Division of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Faculty of Psychology, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Karin Hediger
- Division of Clinical Psychology and Animal-Assisted Interventions, Faculty of Psychology, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
- REHAB Basel, Clinic for Neurorehabilitation and Paraplegiology, Basel, Switzerland
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, Human and Animal Health Unit, Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Allschwil, Switzerland
- Faculty of Psychology, Open University, Heerlen, Netherlands
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5
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Çevik Akyıl R, Çitlik Sarıtaş S, Kahraman A, Akyıl MŞ, Abacıgil F. The Validity and Reliability of the Turkish Pet Attitude Scale. MEANDROS MEDICAL AND DENTAL JOURNAL 2022. [DOI: 10.4274/meandros.galenos.2021.77045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
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6
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Cooke E, Henderson-Wilson C, Warner E, LaMontagne A. Animal-assisted interventions in universities: a scoping review of implementation and associated outcomes. Health Promot Int 2022:6517178. [DOI: 10.1093/heapro/daac001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Summary
With levels of stress and anxiety rising among the university community, universities worldwide are implementing animal-assisted interventions (AAIs) on campus. However, to date, little is known about how to implement these initiatives. Questions also remain as to the impact of evaluated AAIs on health and wellbeing. Therefore, this study sought to review the implementation and effectiveness of previous AAIs in university settings. Electronic databases ProQuest Central, Gale and 16 databases within EBSCOHost were searched with key words, such as AAI, and university or college students for relevant articles. Inclusion criteria included primary research studies that measured a health, wellbeing or behavioural outcome. A total of 47 articles met inclusion criteria, including 24 RCTs. There was limited reporting on the implementation of AAIs in the higher education setting. A total of 11 different mental health and behavioural outcomes have been summarized, with stress, anxiety and mood providing favourable results. An AAI on campus may provide a form of stress and anxiety relief for the university community. Other mental health and behavioural outcomes require further research to determine their effectiveness. These findings highlight that an AAI on campus could potentially provide a form of stress and anxiety relief, and could be a strategy for addressing rising levels of psychological stress and mental health issues among university students and staff in Australia and internationally.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily Cooke
- Deakin University, Faculty of Health, School of Health and Social Development, 221 Burwood Highway, Burwood, Victoria, 3125, Australia
| | - Claire Henderson-Wilson
- Deakin University, Faculty of Health, School of Health and Social Development, 221 Burwood Highway, Burwood, Victoria, 3125, Australia
| | - Elyse Warner
- Deakin University, Faculty of Health, School of Health and Social Development, 221 Burwood Highway, Burwood, Victoria, 3125, Australia
| | - Anthony LaMontagne
- Deakin University, Faculty of Health, School of Health and Social Development, 221 Burwood Highway, Burwood, Victoria, 3125, Australia
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Brisson S, Davis T, Sanders T, Young K. The Impact of a Therapy Dog Team on Medical Students’ Physiological Stress and Perceived Anxiety Prior to an Exam. JOURNAL OF CREATIVITY IN MENTAL HEALTH 2021. [DOI: 10.1080/15401383.2021.1986186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Sara Brisson
- University of Hartford, Graduate Institute of Professional Psychology, West Hartford, CT, USA
| | - Taylor Davis
- Edward via College of Osteopathic Medicine, Auburn Campus, Auburn, AL, USA
| | - Tierra Sanders
- Edward via College of Osteopathic Medicine, Auburn Campus, Auburn, AL, USA
| | - Kaelin Young
- Edward via College of Osteopathic Medicine, Auburn Campus, Auburn, AL, USA
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8
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Parbery-Clark C, Lubamba M, Tanner L, McColl E. Animal-Assisted Interventions for the Improvement of Mental Health Outcomes in Higher Education Students: A Systematic Review of Randomised Controlled Trials. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:10768. [PMID: 34682513 PMCID: PMC8535789 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph182010768] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2021] [Revised: 09/05/2021] [Accepted: 09/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The aim of this systematic review was to evaluate the effectiveness of Animal-Assisted Interventions (AAIs), particularly Animal-Assisted Therapy (AAT) and Animal-Assisted Activity (AAA), in improving mental health outcomes for students in higher education. The number of students in higher education reporting mental health problems and seeking support from universities' student support services has risen over recent years. Therefore, providing engaging interventions, such as AAIs, that are accessible to large groups of students are attractive. METHODS MEDLINE, PsycINFO, Embase and Cochrane Library were searched from relative inception to end of April 2020. Additionally, a grey literature search was undertaken. Independent screening, data extraction and risk of bias assessment were completed, with varying percentages, by two reviewers. RESULTS After de-duplication, 6248 articles were identified of which 11 studies were included in the narrative synthesis. The evidence from randomised controlled trials suggests that AAIs could provide short-term beneficial results for anxiety in students attending higher education but with limited evidence for stress, and inconclusive evidence for depression, well-being and mood. For the non-statistically significant results, the studies either did not include a power calculation or were under-powered. CONCLUSIONS Potential emerging evidence for the short-term benefits of AAI for anxiety, and possibly stress, for students in higher education was found.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charlotte Parbery-Clark
- Population Health Sciences Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 7RU, UK; (M.L.); (L.T.); (E.M.)
- Newcastle City Council, Civic Centre, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 8QH, UK
| | - Marvellas Lubamba
- Population Health Sciences Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 7RU, UK; (M.L.); (L.T.); (E.M.)
| | - Louise Tanner
- Population Health Sciences Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 7RU, UK; (M.L.); (L.T.); (E.M.)
| | - Elaine McColl
- Population Health Sciences Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 7RU, UK; (M.L.); (L.T.); (E.M.)
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Santaniello A, Garzillo S, Cristiano S, Fioretti A, Menna LF. The Research of Standardized Protocols for Dog Involvement in Animal-Assisted Therapy: A Systematic Review. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11092576. [PMID: 34573542 PMCID: PMC8468867 DOI: 10.3390/ani11092576] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2021] [Revised: 08/26/2021] [Accepted: 08/30/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Dogs are considered the most important species involved in animal-assisted therapy (AAT), and the scientific literature focuses on the benefits linked to the involvement of dogs in various therapeutic areas. In this study, we carried out a systematic review according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines, exploring the scientific literature from the last 5 years (2016-2021) on three databases (PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science) to highlight the characteristics of the dogs involved in AATs. Based on the scientific literature relevant to such dogs, we considered different parameters (i.e., number, age, sex, breed, temperament, methods of choice and training, health status, research goals, and activities with dogs) to include studies in our paper. After screening 4331 papers identified on the searched databases, we selected 38 articles that met the inclusion criteria. Analysis of the included articles showed that the characteristics of the dogs were neglected. Our findings indicated a lack of information about the dogs, as well as the absence of standardized and univocal criteria for dog selection, training programs, and health protocols.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonio Santaniello
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Productions, University of Naples Federico II, 80134 Naples, Italy; (S.G.); (A.F.)
- Correspondence: (A.S.); (L.F.M.); Tel.: +39-0812536134 (A.S. & L.F.M.)
| | - Susanne Garzillo
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Productions, University of Naples Federico II, 80134 Naples, Italy; (S.G.); (A.F.)
| | - Serena Cristiano
- SInAPSi Center, University of Naples Federico II, 80133 Naples, Italy;
| | - Alessandro Fioretti
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Productions, University of Naples Federico II, 80134 Naples, Italy; (S.G.); (A.F.)
| | - Lucia Francesca Menna
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Productions, University of Naples Federico II, 80134 Naples, Italy; (S.G.); (A.F.)
- Correspondence: (A.S.); (L.F.M.); Tel.: +39-0812536134 (A.S. & L.F.M.)
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Carr D, Friedmann E, Gee NR, Gilchrist C, Sachs-Ericsson N, Koodaly L. Dog Walking and the Social Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Loneliness in Older Adults. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:1852. [PMID: 34206286 PMCID: PMC8300215 DOI: 10.3390/ani11071852] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2021] [Revised: 06/15/2021] [Accepted: 06/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Pet ownership can provide important companionship and facilitate social connections, which may be particularly important to socially isolated older adults. Given the significant deleterious impact of loneliness on health and wellbeing in later life, many predicted that public safety measures imposed during the COVID-19 pandemic would greatly increase loneliness, particularly among vulnerable populations like older adults. We investigated whether dog walking buffers loneliness in the context of stressors imposed by the COVID-19 pandemic. Longitudinal survey data were obtained from a Florida community-based sample of adults (n = 466) aged 60+ years old in September 2018 and October 2020. Using OLS regression models, we tested: a) the association between the social consequences of COVID-19 and changes in loneliness, and b) the buffering effect of dog walking on this relationship. The high social consequences of COVID-19 were related to increases in loneliness. Walking a dog daily buffered the relationship. These results suggest potential therapeutic effects of dog walking for the promotion of mental health in older adults, particularly in the context of stressful situations that accentuate risks for loneliness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dawn Carr
- Department of Sociology, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL 32306, USA
| | - Erika Friedmann
- School of Nursing, University of Maryland, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA; (E.F.); (L.K.)
| | - Nancy R. Gee
- Center for Human-Animal Interaction, School of Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23284, USA;
| | | | | | - Lincy Koodaly
- School of Nursing, University of Maryland, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA; (E.F.); (L.K.)
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11
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Silva Carvalho F, Carvalho S, Conde R, Esteves S. Cynotherapy in cancer pain management: a pilot study. PAIN MEDICINE 2021; 22:3051-3061. [PMID: 33760046 DOI: 10.1093/pm/pnab118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This was a pilot study to evaluate the feasibility and impact of a single dog-assisted therapy (cynotherapy) session in reducing pain and emotional distress in oncological outpatients compared with typical waiting room experience (control). STUDY DESIGN Quasi-experimental before-after controlled study. SETTING Chronic pain outpatient clinic of a tertiary cancer center. PARTICIPANTS Adult oncological patients able to consent and without medical contra-indication. METHODS All participants completed self-reported questionnaires including a numeric rating scale for pain and distress thermometer at admission and immediately before departure from the clinic. RESULTS Eighty-one patients were enrolled over a ten-month study period, 41 in the cynotherapy group and 40 controls.Improvement was greater in cynotherapy than control group for pain (median difference score -1.0 versus 0.0, p = 0.037), distress levels (median -1.0 versus 0.0, p = 0.017), and depression (median -1.0 versus 0.0, p = 0.030). The proportion of patients with a clinically relevant improvement in pain (reduction ≥2 points) was approximately twofold in the cynotherapy group when compared to controls, although not statistically significant (39% versus 20%, OR = 2.53, 95% CI 0.86-8.02, p = 0.088).The mean satisfaction rate was 9.3/10 and no negative occurrences were reported. CONCLUSION A single session of dog-assisted therapy can provide immediate improvement in the perception of pain and distress for chronic cancer pain in an outpatient setting, with high satisfaction rates and no negative occurrences. This non-randomized pilot study points towards the clinical relevance of implementing cynotherapy at a cancer pain clinic and developing a larger scale, more directed study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Filipe Silva Carvalho
- Unidade de Psiquiatria, Instituto Português de Oncologia de Lisboa Francisco Gentil, E.P.E
| | - Susana Carvalho
- Clínica de Dor, Instituto Português de Oncologia de Lisboa Francisco Gentil, E.P.E
| | - Rita Conde
- Serviço de Oncologia Médica, Instituto Português de Oncologia de Lisboa Francisco Gentil, E.P.E
| | - Susana Esteves
- Unidade de Investigação Clínica, Instituto Português de Oncologia de Lisboa Francisco Gentil, E.P.E
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12
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The Influence of Forest Activities in a University Campus Forest on Student's Psychological Effects. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph18052457. [PMID: 33801534 PMCID: PMC7967591 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18052457] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2021] [Revised: 02/24/2021] [Accepted: 02/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
This study aimed to examine the psychological effects of forest activities in a campus forest. A pre-test and post-test control group design was employed to evaluate the psychological effect of forest activities in a campus forest. A total of 38 participants participated in this study (19 in the forest activities group; 19 in the control group). The Profile of Mood State (POMS) questionnaire, the Concise Measure of Subjective Well-Being (COMOSWB), and the modified form of the Stress Response Inventory (SRI-MF) were administered to each participant to assess psychological effects. This study revealed that participants in the forest activities intervention group had significantly positive increases in their mood, stress response, and subjective well-being, comparing with those of control group participants who did not partake in any forest activities. In conclusion, the implementation of forest activities in a campus forest is an efficient strategy to provide psychological well-being benefits to college students.
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13
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Mueller MK, Anderson EC, King EK, Urry HL. Null effects of therapy dog interaction on adolescent anxiety during a laboratory-based social evaluative stressor. ANXIETY STRESS AND COPING 2021; 34:365-380. [PMID: 33650444 DOI: 10.1080/10615806.2021.1892084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES Animal-assisted interventions (AAIs) are increasingly popular as treatments to reduce anxiety. However, there is little empirical evidence testing the mechanisms of action in AAIs, especially among adolescents. We examined whether two possible mechanisms, social interaction and/or physical contact with a therapy dog, might reduce anxiety during a social stressor. DESIGN AND METHODS To test these mechanisms, we randomly assigned 75 adolescents with low, middle, and high levels of social anxiety to complete a laboratory-based social evaluative stressor in one of three conditions: social interaction with a therapy dog (no physical interaction), social plus physical interaction with a therapy dog, or no interaction with a therapy dog. We measured self-reported anxiety and autonomic reactivity during the social stressor to assess the effects of contact with a therapy dog. RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS We found no evidence that the presence of a real dog, with or without the opportunity to touch it, reduced anxiety or autonomic reactivity or improved cognitive performance relative to the presence of a stuffed dog in the control condition, regardless of levels of preexisting social anxiety.Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT03249116.
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Affiliation(s)
- Megan K Mueller
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine at Tufts University, North Grafton, MA, USA.,Tisch College of Civic Life at Tufts University, Medford, MA, USA
| | - Eric C Anderson
- Center for Outcomes Research and Evaluation, Maine Medical Center Research Institute, Scarborough, ME, USA.,Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Erin K King
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine at Tufts University, North Grafton, MA, USA.,Tisch College of Civic Life at Tufts University, Medford, MA, USA
| | - Heather L Urry
- Department of Psychology, Tufts University, Medford, MA, USA
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14
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Cortisol Levels of Shelter Dogs in Animal Assisted Interventions in a Prison: An Exploratory Study. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11020345. [PMID: 33572936 PMCID: PMC7911336 DOI: 10.3390/ani11020345] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2020] [Revised: 01/22/2021] [Accepted: 01/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Animal Assisted Interventions (AAI) are growing in popularity among professionals of psychological therapies due to their clear benefit for human health. However, to date, little attention has been paid to the welfare of the animals involved in the interventions. In this study we evaluated the potential impact of such activities on the welfare of dogs living in a kennel, which had weekly interactions with inmates held at a prison. To assess their stress levels, we analyzed their physiological response to a stressful situation by measuring the cortisol levels in saliva samples. We found a significant decrease in cortisol concentration at the end of the AAI program measured in the dogs’ living environment (i.e., kennel), which suggests a positive effect of the AAI activities on the welfare of kennel dogs. The results also suggest that transportation from the kennel to the prison could be perceived as a stressful event since it significantly increased dogs’ cortisol levels. Therefore, particular care should be taken in the management of this phase. Abstract Previous studies regarding the Animal Assisted Interventions (AAI) have mainly focused on the beneficial effects of human–animal interactions on human health; whereas the impact of such activities on the welfare of the animals involved has received limited attention. So far, few studies have addressed this issue by evaluating the physiological and behavioral reactions of therapy dogs during the interventions. The aim of this study was to evaluate the potential effect of AAI on the cortisol levels of shelter dogs. Five dogs participated in weekly AAI working activities with adult inmates held at a prison of the South of Italy for two months. Saliva samples were collected every two weeks in three conditions: at the kennel (baseline), after transportation and at the end of the working sessions. The results revealed a significant decrease in the cortisol baseline at the end of the AAI program, suggesting that the activities carried out with humans and in a different environment could improve the welfare of dogs housed in kennels. Moreover, we found that transportation significantly increased subjects’ cortisol levels, suggesting that it is a critical phase that deserves particular care.
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Cooke E, Henderson-Wilson C, Warner E. The feasibility of a Pet Support Program in an Australian university setting. Health Promot J Austr 2020; 32 Suppl 2:256-266. [PMID: 32869435 DOI: 10.1002/hpja.411] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2020] [Accepted: 08/21/2020] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
ISSUE ADDRESSED Internationally, universities have recognised the benefits of Pet Support Programs (PSPs). However, existing literature has predominately focused on quantitatively measuring health outcomes associated with a PSP amongst student populations. This research aimed to explore the feasibility of a PSP within an Australian university, as there is a need to explore practical considerations involved in implementation. METHODS This research used a qualitative descriptive approach. Participants were recruited via purposive snowball sampling. The sample included 17 participants across eight administrative divisions within an Australian university. Semi-structured individual interviews were used to collect data. Data were analysed using thematic analysis. RESULTS Three main themes emerged from the data: Organisational Change, Program Management and Perceived Outcomes. Findings suggest several considerations from both an organisational and program level that need to be addressed prior to implementation, including the university's policies, the location and animal welfare. The main perceived outcomes were stress relief and social support. Ways to minimise risks to those who may have an aversion towards animals were also discussed. CONCLUSIONS Participants believed implementing a PSP would be feasible in the university setting, provided all aforementioned considerations were adequately addressed. Considerations identified have the potential to act as a barrier or a facilitator depending on how they are managed. SO WHAT?: Where feasible and later implemented, a PSP could provide Australian university students and staff with an alternative means of improving mental health, providing stress relief and contributing towards the Health Promoting University framework.
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Geva N, Uzefovsky F, Levy-Tzedek S. Touching the social robot PARO reduces pain perception and salivary oxytocin levels. Sci Rep 2020; 10:9814. [PMID: 32555432 PMCID: PMC7299999 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-66982-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2019] [Accepted: 05/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Human-human social touch improves mood and alleviates pain. No studies have so far tested the effect of human-robot emotional touch on experimentally induced pain ratings, on mood and on oxytocin levels in healthy young adults. Here, we assessed the effect of touching the robot PARO on pain perception, on mood and on salivary oxytocin levels, in 83 young adults. We measured their perceived pain, happiness state, and salivary oxytocin. For the 63 participants in the PARO group, pain was assessed in three conditions: Baseline, Touch (touching PARO) and No-Touch (PARO present). The control group (20 participants) underwent the same measurements without ever encountering PARO. There was a decrease in pain ratings and in oxytocin levels and an increase in happiness ratings compared to baseline only in the PARO group. The Touch condition yielded a larger decrease in pain ratings compared to No-Touch. These effects correlated with the participants' positive perceptions of the interaction with PARO. Participants with higher perceived ability to communicate with PARO experienced a greater hypoalgesic effect when touching PARO. We show that human-robot social touch is effective in reducing pain ratings, improving mood and - surprisingly - reducing salivary oxytocin levels in adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nirit Geva
- Recanati School for Community Health Professions, Department of Physical Therapy, Faculty of Health Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva, Israel
| | - Florina Uzefovsky
- Zlotowski Center for Neuroscience, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva, Israel
- Department of Psychology, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva, Israel
| | - Shelly Levy-Tzedek
- Recanati School for Community Health Professions, Department of Physical Therapy, Faculty of Health Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva, Israel.
- Zlotowski Center for Neuroscience, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva, Israel.
- Freiburg Institute for Advanced Studies (FRIAS), University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany.
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The combined use of salivary cortisol concentrations, heart rate, and respiratory rate for the welfare assessment of dogs involved in AAI programs. J Vet Behav 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jveb.2019.10.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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The influence of a therapy dog on a pediatric therapy organization: A mini ethnography. Complement Ther Clin Pract 2020; 38:101083. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ctcp.2019.101083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2019] [Accepted: 12/18/2019] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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Therapeutic for all? Observational assessments of therapy canine stress in an on-campus stress-reduction program. J Vet Behav 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jveb.2019.03.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
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Holt EW, Lombard QK, Best N, Smiley-Smith S, Quinn JE. Active and Passive Use of Green Space, Health, and Well-Being amongst University Students. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2019; 16:ijerph16030424. [PMID: 30717193 PMCID: PMC6388138 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph16030424] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2018] [Revised: 01/19/2019] [Accepted: 01/25/2019] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Frequent exposure to green space has been linked to positive health and well-being in varying populations. Yet, there is still limited research exploring the restorative benefits associated with differing types of green space use among students living in the university setting. To address this gap, we explored green space use amongst a population of undergraduate students (n = 207) attending a university with abundant opportunities to access the restorative properties of nature. The purpose of this study was to examine the type and frequency of green space interactions that are most strongly associated with indicators of health and well-being, and investigate student characteristics associated with frequent use of green space. Results revealed that students who frequently engage with green spaces in active ways report higher quality of life, better overall mood, and lower perceived stress. Passive green space interactions were not strongly associated with indicators of health and well-being. Having had daily interactions with green space in childhood was associated with frequent green space use as a university student, and identified barriers to green space use included "not enough time," and "not aware of opportunities" These results could assist in the tailoring of "green exercise" interventions conducted in the university setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth W Holt
- Department of Health Sciences, Furman University, Greenville, SC 29615, USA.
| | - Quinn K Lombard
- Department of Health Sciences, Furman University, Greenville, SC 29615, USA.
| | - Noelle Best
- Department of Health Sciences, Furman University, Greenville, SC 29615, USA.
| | - Sara Smiley-Smith
- Yale School of Forestry & Environmental Studies, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06511, USA.
| | - John E Quinn
- Department of Biology, Furman University, Greenville, SC 29615, USA.
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Exploring Social Desirability Bias in Perceptions of Dog Adoption: All's Well that Ends Well? Or Does the Method of Adoption Matter? Animals (Basel) 2018; 8:ani8090154. [PMID: 30217039 PMCID: PMC6162534 DOI: 10.3390/ani8090154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2018] [Revised: 09/04/2018] [Accepted: 09/08/2018] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Dog adoption is often cited as an ethical and popular method of acquisition but interpretation of the term ‘adoption’ may vary. In a nationally representative survey of the U.S., 767 respondents were asked questions regarding their opinions of dog acquisition including adoption. Within the sample, 45% had a dog; of those, 40% had adopted a dog and 47% visited a veterinarian once a year. Respondents’ preferences for the most ethical method of dog adoption were elicited using a survey instrument. Our results indicate that respondents had the largest preference share for adoption from a municipal animal shelter’ (56%) and the smallest preference share for adoption from a pet store (3%). Dog acquisition was further evaluated by creating an index of social desirability bias comparing how important respondents believed certain dog characteristics were and how important respondents believed others would rate/rank the same dog characteristics. The highest incidences of social desirability bias occurred for the dog characteristics of appearance and breed. Abstract Dogs are a popular companion animal in the United States; however, dog acquisition is often a contentious subject. Adoption is often cited as an ethical and popular method of acquisition but interpretation of the term ‘adoption’ may vary. In a nationally representative survey of the U.S., 767 respondents were asked questions regarding their opinions of dog acquisition and adoption. Within the sample, 45% had a dog; of those, 40% had adopted a dog, and 47% visited a veterinarian once a year. A best-worst choice experiment, where respondents were asked to choose the most ethical and least ethical method of acquiring a dog from a statistically determined set of choices, was used to elicit respondents’ preferences for the most ethical method of dog adoption. A random parameters logit and a latent class model were used to estimate relative rankings of dog adoption methods. In the random parameters logit model, the largest preference share was for adoption from a municipal animal shelter (56%) and the smallest preference share was for adoption from a pet store (3%). Dog acquisition was further evaluated by creating an index of social desirability bias using how important respondents believed certain dog characteristics were compared to how important respondents believed others would rate/rank the same dog characteristics. The highest incidences of social desirability bias occurred for the dog characteristics of appearance and breed.
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Powell L, Chia D, McGreevy P, Podberscek AL, Edwards KM, Neilly B, Guastella AJ, Lee V, Stamatakis E. Expectations for dog ownership: Perceived physical, mental and psychosocial health consequences among prospective adopters. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0200276. [PMID: 29979749 PMCID: PMC6034856 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0200276] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2018] [Accepted: 06/22/2018] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Dog ownership is popular worldwide, with most human-dog dyads forming successful attachment bonds. However, millions of dogs are surrendered to animal shelters annually, possibly due to mismatches between owner expectations and the realities of dog ownership. The aim of the current study was to explore the benefits and challenges people expect from dog ownership and how these expectations vary with previous ownership history. An Australian-wide sample of 3465 prospective adopters completed a self-administered online questionnaire about the physical, mental and psychosocial health benefits and challenges they associated with dog ownership. Among the potential benefits, respondents expected increased walking (89%), happiness (89%) and companionship (61%) and decreased stress (74%) and loneliness (61%). Among the challenges, they expected increased responsibility (64%) and dog training (62%). Ownership history influenced respondents’ expectations, with previous/current dog owners having consistently greater odds of expecting benefits and reduced odds of expecting challenges than non-owners. A possible explanation is that previous/current dog owners’ exhibit bias when considering dog ownership by selectively recalling positive experiences from previous ownership. Our findings support the need for education of prospective dog owners to ensure their expectations align with the reality of ownership, based on current scientific evidence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren Powell
- Charles Perkins Centre, Prevention Research Collaboration, Sydney School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- * E-mail:
| | - Debbie Chia
- Charles Perkins Centre, Prevention Research Collaboration, Sydney School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Paul McGreevy
- Sydney School of Veterinary Science, University of Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Anthony L. Podberscek
- Charles Perkins Centre, Sydney School of Veterinary Science, University of Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Kate M. Edwards
- Charles Perkins Centre, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Brendon Neilly
- Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RSPCA) NSW, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Adam J. Guastella
- Autism Clinic for Translational Research, Brain and Mind Centre, Central Clinical School, Sydney Medical School, University of Sydney, Camperdown, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Vanessa Lee
- Charles Perkins Centre, Prevention Research Collaboration, Sydney School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Emmanuel Stamatakis
- Charles Perkins Centre, Prevention Research Collaboration, Sydney School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
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Binfet JT, Silas HJ, Longfellow SW, Widmaier-Waurechen K. When Veterinarians Support Canine Therapy: Bidirectional Benefits for Clinics and Therapy Programs. Vet Sci 2018; 5:E2. [PMID: 29300348 PMCID: PMC5876570 DOI: 10.3390/vetsci5010002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2017] [Revised: 12/20/2017] [Accepted: 01/03/2018] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
This paper proposes a mutually beneficial model of collaboration between veterinarians and canine therapy programs. Veterinarians and the clinics for whom they work routinely establish collaborations with multiple and varied stakeholders. This might include a laboratory for processing samples and the corresponding courier company needed to deliver samples to the lab or a partnership with a local dog rescue organization for whom discounted rates are offered. One community partnership that stands to benefit both the clinic and the community agency, is for veterinarians to work in tandem with a local canine-assisted therapy program. The benefits to such an alliance are multifold and address aspects of veterinary medicine including client recruitment, community education, and access to a network of devoted dog enthusiasts.
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Affiliation(s)
- John-Tyler Binfet
- Faculty of Education, University of British Columbia, Kelowna, BC V1V 1V7, Canada
| | - Haley J. Silas
- Faculty of Arts & Sciences, University of British Columbia, Kelowna, BC V1V 1V7, Canada; (H.J.S.); (S.W.L.); (K.W.-W.)
| | - Sean W. Longfellow
- Faculty of Arts & Sciences, University of British Columbia, Kelowna, BC V1V 1V7, Canada; (H.J.S.); (S.W.L.); (K.W.-W.)
| | - Katrina Widmaier-Waurechen
- Faculty of Arts & Sciences, University of British Columbia, Kelowna, BC V1V 1V7, Canada; (H.J.S.); (S.W.L.); (K.W.-W.)
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