A Survey of Occupational Therapists Using Pet-Facilitated Therapy

Abstract

Pet-facilitated therapy (PFT) is considered a "nontraditional" modality that is being used for a variety of therapies to facilitate a wide spectrum of goals that patients may reach in the course of their therapy. The therapeutic use of animals can be applied anywhere, from the patient's home, to the clinic, or even to the patient's bedside in an institution. This study was designed to survey registered occupational therapists regarding their opinions about the use of PFT and to obtain some statistical information regarding its use in practice. Responses to the majority of questions were skewed to the favorable side. Optional discussion questions reporting drawbacks, suggestions, and comments were summarized to convey apparent trends.