What is Animal-Assisted Activities (or visitation programs) and how does this differ from Animal-Assisted Therapy?
A visitation program or animal-assisted activities occurs when a carefully screened and trained pet accompanies her/his owner/handler to a facility to visit with patients (usually as volunteers). The main goal of this type of program is socialization. The teams provide opportunities for motivational, educational and recreational benefits. The pets encourage smiles, touch and a sense of community. The team must still meet a certain criteria that will inspire safety and confidence regarding health, grooming, behavior and social skills. The team delivers interactions that can enhance existing programs in schools, healthcare facilities and other residential locations. Animal-Assisted therapy is a goal directed intervention by a healthcare professional who, with their own pet or a skilled team, works toward optimum recovery on a committed basis with a specific patient or group. The Benefits of using Trained, Registered Teams Teams that participate in AAT programs might be placed in very str
