What is animal-assisted activities/therapy (AAA/T)?
Animal-assisted activities/therapy (sometimes referred to as “pet therapy”) is a visit or series of visits from a volunteer AAA/T team (a handler and his or her dog) to a patient or family who has requested them. These visits are intended to encourage emotional connection, alleviate stress and feelings of isolation, and promote self-esteem. They can also provide opportunities for life review and the sharing of memories and stories. During a visit from an AAA/T team, the patient and/or family members can: • Pet, hug, or talk to the dog • Throw a ball for the dog to fetch • Give commands to the dog (“sit,” “lie down,” “get”); this can be especially empowering for younger patients and/or family members • Simply sit or lie quietly with the dog at their feet or by their side Providence Hospice of Seattle is a registered facility with the Delta Society, an internationally recognized organization that sets standards for animal-assisted activities/therapy. Our volunteer AAA/T teams are rigorou
