Keywords

Animal-assisted therapy, Healthy People 2010, Pet visitation

Authors

1. DeCourcey, Mary BA
2. Russell, Anne C. PhD, RN, CNS-BC
3. Keister, Kathy J. PhD, RN, CNE

Abstract

Animal-assisted therapy has gained widespread support in a variety of health care settings, including critical care units. This article seeks to review some of the current animal-assisted therapy, define a structured program, and evaluate the potential ability of the therapy to enhance the progress and health of our patients.