Barriers of Animal Assisted Therapy

Authors

• Taylor Blanchard, University of St. Augustine for Health SciencesFollow
• Amy Lyons-Brown, University of St. Augustine for Health SciencesFollow

Files

Description

This study employs a mixed-methods design, integrating online surveys, semi-structured interviews, and clinical observations to examine the use of animal-assisted therapy (AAT) within occupational therapy practice. The primary objectives are to characterize the demographics of occupational therapists and therapy animals engaged in AAT, identify barriers to its implementation, and evaluate the resources currently available to support practitioner knowledge and competency. By addressing these areas, the study seeks to clarify existing gaps in education and practice, with the broader goal of strengthening the evidence base and enhancing the accessibility, consistency, and impact of AAT in occupational therapy.

Publication Date

Spring 4-20-2026

Publisher

University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences

Keywords

Animal-Assisted Therapy, Equine-Assisted Therapy, Hippotherapy, Occupational Therapy

Medical Subject Headings

Animals, Animal Assisted Therapy, Goals, Occupational Therapists, Occupational Therapy, Therapy Animals, Demography, Hippotherapy

Disciplines

Medicine and Health Sciences | Occupational Therapy

Comments

Poster presented at the OTD Capstone Symposium, held at the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences on April 20, 2026

Recommended Citation

Blanchard, T., & Lyons-Brown, A. (2026, April 20). Barriers of Animal Assisted Therapy. Poster presented at the Virtual OTD Capstone Symposium, University of St Augustine for Health Sciences. Retrieved from https://soar.usa.edu/otdcapstonesspring2026/56