Pet therapy effects on oncological day hospital patients undergoing chemotherapy treatment
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| Category | Journal Articles |
|---|---|
| Abstract |
Background: Pet therapy is utilised to improve the quality of life of patients with chronic diseases. The impact of AAA (animal-assisted activities), a kind of pet therapy, on oncological patients submitted to chemotherapy was evaluated. Patients and Methods: Two groups of patients receiving chemotherapy with (experimental group) or without AAA (control group) were compared. The 2 participating dogs have been trained by a cynophilist behaviourist and examined by a veterinarian. Before and after chemotherapy both groups of patients were asked to fill out a A.De.Ss.O. test questionnaire, a simplified Italian version of Kellner's Symptom Questionnaire. Arterial blood pressure, heart rate and arterial oxygen saturation were recorded. Results: Depression improved only in the AAA group (p=0.01). Arterial oxygen saturation increased in the experimental group (p=0.004), while it decreased in the controls. Conclusion: AAA during chemotherapy reduces depression of patients and increases their arterial oxygen saturation. |
| Date | 2007 |
| Publication Title | Anticancer Research |
| Volume | 27 |
| Issue | 6C |
| Pages | 4301-4304 |
| ISBN/ISSN | 0250-7005 |
| Author Address | Department of Oncology, Carrara City Hospital, piazza Sacco e Vanzetti, 54033 Carrara, Italy.maurizio.cantore@usl1.toscana.it |
| Additional Language | English |
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