Considerations of dog assisted therapy in support of cognitive-behavioral therapy

Effects of animal assisted therapy in relation to physical and psychological human health have been previously reported. However, not all the results have been clearly understood due to the variety of measurement forms used. This paper shows the limitations faced when developing a research study on a workshop applied to increase emotional intelligence in a group of adolescents living in a shelter. The limitations presented are examples of the aspects that are essential to achieving a correct evaluation and application of animal assisted therapy in support of cognitive behavioral therapy. It is concluded that although animal assisted therapy is an appropriate intervention for certain populations, cost-benefit analysis should be considered in the process.