Natural healers: a review of animal assisted therapy and activities as complementary treatment for chronic conditions

Abstract

The primary objective of this review is to synthesize the existing literature on the use of animal-assisted therapy and activity (AAT/A) as complementary treatment among people living with chronic disease and to discuss the possible application of this practice among children living with HIV. Relevant databases were searched between March 10 and April 11, 2011, using the words: animal assisted therapy or treatment and chronic conditions or diseases. Thirty-one articles were found and 18 followed the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Research suggests that AAT/A is effective for different patient profiles, particularly children. Interaction with dogs has been found to increase positive behaviors, such as sensitivity and focus, in children with social disabilities. Decreased levels of pain have also been reported among child patients as a result of AAT/A. More research should be done in the area of children living with chronic diseases that require strict adherence to treatment, such as HIV, and on AAT/A's prospective use as an educational tool to teach children about the importance of self-care for their medical conditions.

Efeitos da Terapia Assistida por Animais na Qualidade de Vida de Idosos: uma Revisão Sistemática

“…Como principal achado verificou-se que a TAA produz melhora na qualidade de vida de idosos. Uma hipótese para explicar esse resultado seria a de que o uso da TAA está relacionado à diminuição da ansiedade, aumento da autoeficácia e da capacidade de enfrentamento de problemas e estimulação do sistema nervoso simpático, o que levaria ao aumento da endorfina, levando a sensação de bem-estar (Reed et al, 2012).…”

Terapia assistida com cães em pediatria oncológica: percepção de pais e enfermeiros

“…Literature (17) says that Animal-Assisted Therapy can be used as a tool of approximation between nurses and patients, since it eases their communication -also considering it part of the treatment. Literature also emphasizes that the recognition of patients' feelings is essential to nurses, since by this understanding they can realize patients' real needs, which contributes to the carrying out of a systematic care plan that considers the patient as a whole and develops an empathic attitude.…”

Reflections on the Therapy Assisted by Animals in Palliative Care

“…Animals arouse the interest, attention and affection of people, from childhood to old age, playing an important role in their lives, either as pets and company or as a co-therapist. 8 In the health area there have been reports of the importance and benefits arising from this relationship. There are already recognized practices that use animals as auxiliary tools in promoting health improvement, rehabilitation, and palliation.…”