Assessing Provider Knowledge and Attitude Towards Animal-Assisted Therapy as a Complementary Treatment for Children

Objective: The purpose of this project was to determine knowledge and attitudes of pediatric primary care providers working in a university outpatient clinic settings towards the use of animal-assisted therapy as a complementary treatment for children. This report also includes an integrative review of animal-assisted therapy in pediatric populations and a clinical practice guideline analysis regarding the use of equine facilitated learning with high risk children and adolescents in residential psychiatric treatment. Methods: A survey tool was administered to the Department of Pediatrics at UK Healthcare. Results: There were 41 respondents to the survey, 36 of which met inclusion criteria. Conclusions: The majority of providers were positive towards the use of animal-assisted therapy and responded that they felt it is beneficial for patients. Many respondents were concerned about cost and transportation issues, and responded with an interest for more education