Abstract
Throughout time, animals have been used to help people physically, mentally, and emotionally. Research on Animal-Assisted Therapy (AAT) started in the 1960s with psychologist Dr. Boris M. Levinson, but animals have been helping humanity long before research began on this topic. Animals seem to have a natural gift for helping people feel better physically and emotionally. For that reason, different types of institutions, locations, and businesses are implementing Animal-Assisted Therapy programs. Also, multiple researchers are investigating to what extent Animal-Assisted Therapy can help people physically and mentally. This researcher aims to study the different physical and mental benefits this type of treatment can have on people with physical injuries, disabilities, mental disorders, and emotional struggles. This paper seeks to inform the audience about the benefits of Animal-Assisted Therapy and share stories about how this form of treatment has helped humanity throughout history and modern-day times. Through this research, the author hopes to motivate more hospitals and educational institutions to implement Animal-Assisted Therapy programs by demonstrating how this form of treatment can help humanity in these difficult times of a COVID-19 pandemic. The goal of this work is to bring awareness to the effectiveness and healing power of Animal-Assisted Therapy (a healthy and holistic treatment suited for all individuals) through an analysis of reputable resources, studies, and recorded interviews by professionals, their patients, and other individuals working in the field.
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Video: The Love, Happiness, and Comfort Animals Bring
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