Skip to main content

Table 2 AAT structure according to Gottschling [18] as applied at ICP Dusseldorf

From: Animal-assisted therapy at a University Centre for Palliative Medicine – a qualitative content analysis of patient records

Schedule

Content

Introduction

Greeting of patient

Observation

Introducing the dog and motivational conversation, during which the patient has the opportunity to observe the dog (predominantly directed interaction)

Contact

Patient-dog activities (e.g. stroking, giving treats, games, physical activity), communication with dog handler about the dog and other topics of interest to the patient (predominantly free interaction)

Farewell

Farewell ritual, arranging for another therapy session, etc. (ritualised interaction)