A systematic analysis of the qualitative and quantitative evidence on the purpose of animal-assisted therapy in improving patients wellbeing

Background Animal-assisted therapy, also known as pet therapy, is a therapeutic intervention that involves animals to enhance the well-being of individuals across various populations and settings. This systematic study aims to assess the outcomes of animal-assisted therapy interventions and explore the associated policies. Methods A total of 16 papers published between 2015 and 2023 were selected for analysis. These papers were chosen based on their relevance to the research topic of animal-assisted therapy and their availability in scholarly databases. Thematic synthesis and meta-analysis were employed to synthesize the qualitative and quantitative data extracted from the selected papers. Results The analysis included sixteen studies that met the inclusion criteria and were deemed to be of moderate or higher quality. Among these studies, four demonstrated positive results for therapeutic mediation and one for supportive mediation in psychiatric disorders. Additionally, all studies showed positive outcomes for depression and neurological disorders. Regarding stress and anxiety, three studies indicated supportive mediation while two studies showed activating mediation. Conclusion The overall assessment of animal-assisted therapy shows promise as an effective intervention in promoting well-being among diverse populations. Further research and the establishment of standardized outcome assessment measures and comprehensive policies are essential for advancing the field and maximizing the benefits of animal-assisted therapy.