Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 26, 2026
The Other End of the Leash: An Experimental Test to Analyze How Owners Interact with Their Pet Dogs
Published on: October 13, 2017
The Impact of Canine-Assisted Intervention on Entry-Level Doctor of Physical Therapy Students: A Mixed-Method
Christine Kivlen1, Sara Maher, Rosanne DiZazzo-Miller
1Dep. of Health Care Sciences, Wayne State University, 259 Mack Ave., Detroit, MI 48202, USA. Tel 586-946-0349. az5998@wayne.edu.
Background:
Canine-assisted intervention (CAI) has been shown to improve well-being in college students, but limited research focuses on physical therapy students. This study aimed to determine the effects of CAI on stress, anxiety, and graduate role adaptation in entry-level Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) students.
Methods:
This study evaluated the impact of CAI on stress, anxiety, and graduate roles in 44 entry-level DPT students. Using a mixed-method, convergent parallel design, participants were randomly assigned to a control or experimental group (EG). The EG engaged in 6 weeks of CAI, interacting with therapy dogs to their comfort level. Stress was defined as perceived psychological pressure, and anxiety as heightened worry or fear.
Results:
Quantitative findings revealed sigificant improvements in quality of life for psychological (t(42) = 2.8, p = 0.008, d = 0.84) and social relationship domains (t(42) = 4.0, p < 0.001, d = 1.20). Stress declined significantly after each CAI session, though no long-term differences were observed for stress over time, anxiety, or engagement. Qualitative analysis identified three themes: improved performance and mood, reduced stress and anxiety, and meaningful escapes from academic pressures.
Conclusion:
Qualitative results support quantitative findings in this study. CAI may be an effective short-term mental health support to entry-level DPT graduate students.
