Journal of Psychosomatic Research
Volume 49, Issue 4 , Pages 275-280, October 2000

Animal-assisted therapy — magic or medicine?

  • J.S.J Odendaal

      Affiliations

    • Corresponding Author InformationP.O. Box 17855, Pretoria North 0116, Republic of South Africa. Tel.: +27-12-565-6090; fax: +27-12-546-8962

Life Sciences Research Institute, Technikon Pretoria, Private Bag X680, Pretoria 0001, South Africa

Received 20 June 2000; accepted 12 July 2000.

Abstract 

A sound theoretical basis supported by scientifically measured physiological parameters is needed to gain medical support for animal-assisted therapy. Six neurochemicals associated with a decrease in blood pressure were measured in humans (n=18) and dogs (n=18) before and after positive interaction. Results (P<.05) indicated that in both species the neurochemicals involved with attention-seeking or attentionis egens behavior have increased. This information can be used as a rationale for animal-assisted therapy.

Keywords:  Animal-assisted therapy, Physiological parameters, Theoretical basis

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PII: S0022-3999(00)00183-5

Journal of Psychosomatic Research
Volume 49, Issue 4 , Pages 275-280, October 2000

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