What is a Therapy Animal?

• "A therapy animal is a type of animal-assisted intervention in which there is a “goal directed intervention in which an animal meeting specific criteria is an integral part of the treatment process. Animal-assisted therapy is provided in a variety of settings, and may be group or individual in nature.” (Fair Housing Act (42 U.S.C. Part 3604) and Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA) and C.F.R. Part 382.117)

What is Animal-Assisted Therapy (AAT)?

• A goal directed intervention in which an animal meeting specific criteria is an integral part of the treatment process. Animal-assisted therapy is delivered and/or directed by health or human service providers working within the scope of their profession. Animal-assisted therapy is designed to promote improvement in human physical, social, emotional, or cognitive function. Animal-assisted therapy is provided in a variety of settings, and may be group or individual in nature. The process is documented and evaluated (https://www.avma.org/resources-tools/avma-policies/animal-assisted-interventions-definitions)

What is Animal-Assisted Education (AAE):

• A planned and structured intervention directed and/or delivered by educational and related service professional with specific academic or educational goals (https://www.avma.org/resources-tools/avma-policies/animal-assisted-interventions-definitions)

What are Animal-Assisted Activities (AAA):

•  provide opportunities for motivation, education, or recreation to enhance quality of life. Animal assisted activities are delivered in a variety of environments by specially trained professionals, paraprofessionals, or volunteers in association with animals that meet specific criteria (https://www.avma.org/resources-tools/avma-policies/animal-assisted-interventions-definitions).