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Animal-assisted therapy - magic or medicine?

By J. S. J. Odendaal

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Abstract

A sound theoretical basis supported by scientifically measured physiological parameters is needed to gain medical support for animal-assisted therapy. Six neurochemicals associated with a decrease in blood pressure were measured in humans (n=18) and dogs (n=18) before and after positive interaction. Results (P<.05) indicated that in both species the neurochemicals involved with attention-seeking or attentionis egens behavior have increased. This information can be used as a rationale for animal-assisted therapy.

Date 2000
Publication Title Journal of Psychosomatic Research
Volume 49
Issue 4
Pages 275-280
ISBN/ISSN 0022-3999
Publisher Elsevier
DOI 10.1016/S0022-3999(00)00183-5
Language English
Author Address Life Sciences Research Institute, Technikon Pretoria, Private Bag X680, Pretoria 0001, South Africa.
Additional Language English
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Tags
  1. Animal-assisted therapies
  2. Anthrozoology
  3. Blood Pressure
  4. Humans
  5. Interactions
  6. Mammals
  7. neuropeptides
  8. peer-reviewed
  9. Pets and companion animals
  10. physiology
  11. Primates
Badges
  1. peer-reviewed