Impact of the implementation of a therapy dog program on burn center patients and staff

Animal-assisted interventions have been implemented in both inpatient and outpatient settings and have demonstrated positive outcomes on patients and hospital staff. Animal-assisted interventions have not been previously reported in any burn center. A therapy dog program was established at our burn center with the intent of improving duration and quality of rehabilitation sessions and physical therapy. Satisfaction surveys were distributed to patients and staff. After one year, 14 patient surveys and 23 staff surveys were collected. Implementation of this program was feasible and patients worked with the therapy dogs in all environments of the burn center: outpatient, ward, and ICU. Most patients reported improved pain and anxiety after working with the therapy dogs. All patients reported that they would like more sessions with the therapy dogs. All staff members were satisfied or very satisfied with their therapy dog visit and all enjoyed having the therapy dogs present. Most reported an improved mood after seeing the therapy dogs and wanted that additional therapy dog visits. One year after the implementation of the therapy dog program, we have demonstrated feasibility, acceptability, and desirability of this type of program at our burn center. Given the paramount importance of rehabilitation in the recovery of burn patients, further investigation into therapy should be performed and longer term outcomes assessed.