Date of Award

Spring 5-20-2023

Embargo Period

4-27-2023

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Health Administration

Department

Health Administration

College

College of Health Professions

First Advisor

Jillian Harvey

Second Advisor

Daniel Brinton

Third Advisor

Michele Woodbury

Abstract

Animal-assisted therapy (AAT) has the possibility of enhancing health outcomes for those living with substance abuse disorders. Previous research primarily focused on individuals with a diagnosis of dementia and other cognitive related disorders. Prior research that did look at individuals with substance abuse focused on the use of horses rather than canines and were limited to small sample sizes. We used an electronic medical record system to identify eligible patients to volunteer to participate in two weeks of animal-assisted therapy at one substance abuse treatment center in southeastern United States. Volunteers completed pre and post survey questions measuring overall satisfaction in the treatment program. It was found that anxiety was significantly decreased after animal-assisted therapy sessions. Feelings of self-worth, confidence, and overall satisfaction were trending in the right direction, but did not yield a positive result.

Rights

Copyright is held by the author. All rights reserved.

Download

Share

COinS