Pet Dogs can Help Accelerate Healing Process

Dogs are not only man’s best friend but can also help cure a number of ailments, including cancer, in humans, a new study that will be analyzing the effects of animal-assisted therapy (AAT) reveals. Researchers at American Humane Association will be conducting the study which will involve around 100 children who have been newly diagnosed with cancer. Half of the children will be receiving visits from therapy dogs while the other half will receive standard treatment in the year-long study. Veterinary health firm Zoetis has supported the study by providing a grant of $1 million with the Pfizer Foundation also chipping in with a similar amount.

“Studies like this are vital for providing an evidence-based medicine which will help us improve public health”, lead investigator Deborah Linder, adding that around five children’s hospitals will be collecting data in the trial which will involve around 200 therapy dogs.


Source-Medindia