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Family Dog-Assisted Adapted Physical Activity: A Case Study.
Amanda Tepfer1, Samantha Ross2, Megan MacDonald3
1Health & Human Performance, Norwich University, Northfield, VT 05663, USA. atepfer@norwich.edu.
Animals : an Open Access Journal From MDPI
|April 28, 2017
Summary
Adapted physical activity with family dogs improved motor skills, physical activity, and quality of life in a child with cerebral palsy (CP). This animal-assisted intervention (APA-AAI) shows promise for promoting healthy lifestyles.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Rehabilitation Medicine
- Animal-Assisted Interventions
Background:
- Cerebral palsy (CP) presents challenges in motor skills, physical activity, and quality of life.
- Adapted physical activity (APA) is a key component in managing CP.
- The role of animal-assisted interventions (AAI) in pediatric rehabilitation is an emerging area of research.
Observation:
- A single-subject case study design was employed to evaluate the effects of APA-AAI.
- Intervention involved weekly 60-minute sessions of adapted physical activities with a family dog over 8 weeks.
- Daily at-home activities with the family dog were also incorporated.
Findings:
- Significant improvements were observed in motor skill performance.
- Increased levels of physical activity were recorded.
- Enhanced quality of life and a stronger human-animal bond were reported.
Implications:
- Preliminary findings suggest that family dog-assisted adapted physical activity (APA-AAI) can positively impact children with CP.
- This approach may contribute to fostering healthier lifestyles in children with disabilities.
- Further research is warranted to explore the broader applicability of APA-AAI in pediatric CP management.
