Pet Therapy Part VIII: American Veterinary Medical Association Guidelines
The following is the American Veterinary Medical Association's statement of policy, retrieved from: http://www.avma.org/issues/policy/animal_assisted_guidelines.asp
When the AVMA officially recognized, in 1982, that the human animal bond was important to client and community health, it acknowledged that the human animal bond has existed for thousands of years and that this relationship has major importance for veterinary medicine. As veterinary medicine serves society, it fulfills human and animal needs. Animal assisted activities, animal-assisted therapy, and resident animal programs are included and endorsed by human healthcare providers as cost effective interventions for specific patient populations in various acute and rehabilitative care facilities. Veterinarians, as individuals and professionals, are uniquely qualified to provide community service via such programs and to aid in scientific evaluation and documentation of the health benefits of the human animal bond. Animal assisted activities, animal-assisted therapy, and resident animal programs should be governed by basic standards, be regularly monitored, and be staffed by appropriately trained personnel. The health and welfare of the humans and animals involved must be ensured. Veterinarians' involvement in these programs from their inception is critical because they serve as advocates for the health and welfare of animals participating in these programs.
Animal assisted activities (AAA) provide opportunities for motivation, education, or recreation to enhance quality of life. Animal assisted activities are delivered in a variety of environments by specially trained professionals, paraprofessionals, or volunteers in association with animals that meet specific criteria.
Animal assisted therapy (AAT) is a goal directed intervention in which an animal meeting specific criteria is an integral part of the treatment process. Animal assisted therapy is delivered and/or directed by health or human service providers working within the scope of their profession. Animal assisted therapy is designed to promote improvement in human physical, social, emotional, or cognitive function. Animal assisted therapy is provided in a variety of settings, and may be group or individual in nature. The process is documented and evaluated.
Resident animals (RA) live in a facility full time, are owned by the facility, and are cared for by staff, volunteers, and residents. Some RA may be formally included in facility activity and therapy schedules after proper screening and training. Others may participate in spontaneous or planned interactions with facility residents and staff.
Human animal support services (HASS) enhance and encourage responsible and humane interrelationships of people, animals, and nature.