Therapet Animal Assisted Therapy
The Arc has partnered with Therapet to work with our special needs children in the schools as well as in all of our programs and activities.
What is Animal Assisted Therapy?
Animal Assisted Therapy (AAT) is the utilization of animals as a therapeutic modality to facilitate healing and rehabilitation of patients with acute or chronic diseases.
What is the difference between a Visitation Program and AAT?
A visitation program occurs when animals accompany their owners to a facility and visit with the patients or residents. The main goal of this type program is socialization. An Animal Assisted Therapy program occurs when animals are used by the therapist in goal directed treatment sessions, as a modality, to facilitate optimal patient outcomes. Regardless of the type of program, all animals should be temperament tested, given a complete veterinary screening and receive obedience training before beginning to work with patients.