[Lassie's magic: animal-assisted therapy in Taiwan]

Animal-assisted therapy (AAT) is a goal-directed intervention, which involves placing appropriately qualified animals into the therapeutic environment of human patients. AAT is also a cross-professional cooperation model combining different health related disciplines, such as veterinary science, animal behavior, medicine, nursing, rehabilitation, and education. Based on concepts of concern for the welfare of both humans and animals, AAT provides an alternative route to comprehensive human health. This article describes the development and current state of canine Animal-Assisted Therapy in Taiwan. It covers the development of the relationship between humans and animals, a review of the literature about AAT, research, development, and outcomes in respect of the current AAT system in Taiwan. It also discusses practical issues concerning the AAT system, by means of examples. Suggestions regarding future services, professional development, education and research are also discussed.