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Animal-assisted therapy at Mayo Clinic: The time is now

2015; Elsevier BV; Volume: 21; Issue: 2 Linguagem: Inglês

10.1016/j.ctcp.2015.03.002

1873-6947

Edward T. Creagan, Brent A. Bauer, Barbara S. Thomley, Jessica M. Borg,

Animal Behavior and Welfare Studies

The animal-human bond refers to an emotional, almost existential, relationship between animals and people. From the time of antiquity, domestic animals were an important source of economic vitality, but with the changing cultural landscape, the companion animal has become a faithful friend. Overwhelming anecdotal evidence supports the healing power of this relationship. We summarize the emerging literature on the neurobiochemical and cardiovascular benefits of companion pet ownership. We address the peer-reviewed data from myriad journal articles assessing the impact of the companion animal on the quality and often the length of life of select patients.