Animal assisted interventions in practice: mapping Italian providers

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Medicine
• Social Sciences
• Healthcare Studies

Background:

• Animal assisted interventions (AAI) have gained significant popularity globally over the past 50 years.
• The growth of AAI in Western countries is mirrored by the rise of specialized associations in Italy.
• Understanding the current landscape of AAI in Italy is crucial for its development.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the current state and distribution of AAI in Italy.
• To identify the types of professionals and animals involved in Italian AAI.
• To provide a snapshot of AAI service providers across the Italian territory.

Main Methods:

• A questionnaire was distributed to 208 respondents involved in AAI.
• Data collected focused on the geographical distribution, organizational structure, and target populations of AAI providers.
• The study analyzed the types of animals and professionals engaged in AAI programs.

Main Results:

• The AAI sector in Italy has experienced substantial growth in the last two decades.
• AAI providers are predominantly located in Northern and Central Italy, often organized as associations or specialized centers.
• Dogs and equids are the most common animals used, primarily in animal assisted activity (AAA) programs for children and individuals with disabilities.

Conclusions:

• The Italian AAI sector is characterized by significant expansion but also fragmentation, particularly concerning professional teams and training.
• Recent national guidelines aim to standardize practices and establish best practices for various AAI types.
• Further standardization and professional development are key for the future of AAI in Italy.