Animal-assisted interventions and their effect on motivation

Who hasn't wondered what it is about dogs and children that understand each other so well? Those shared games and that mutual accompaniment that floods with tender images and traps us in their magic. But what would happen if we took that relationship to the therapeutic field?

Las Animal-Assisted Interventions (IAA) are a type of therapeutic intervention that includes an animal with special characteristics as an integral part of a person's treatment. These interventions are aimed at improving physical, social, cognitive or emotional functioning, depending on the patient's specific need.

Since the 1960s, the first therapeutic projects involving companion animals have scientifically demonstrated beneficial effects in various areas of human health. Although IAA has not yet been fully recognized as an effective therapy, there are many indications that it can be a valuable adjunct to rehabilitation programs, especially for children with mental health or learning problems.

Studies have shown that including an animal in the therapeutic environment not only improves social functioning, but also reduces anxiety levels and increases patient motivation.

In our Neurodevelopment Unit, many of the children we work with face challenges that require a dynamic and motivating approach. Las assisted interventions with dogs are a powerful tool in these cases, especially for improving adherence to treatment. When a child has had bad experiences or is facing difficulties, the dog intervenes as a key motivator, helping to create an environment of trust and support.

The intervention is based on a close collaboration between the therapist and the technician in dog-assisted interventions (TIA). The intervention dog (PI) becomes the child's “travel companion”, supporting him throughout the therapeutic process. While the therapist defines the objectives of the treatment, the TIA guides the dog to elicit the appropriate response in the child.

Thanks to the trust of the pediatric team at the Corachan Clinic, the Neurodevelopment Unit has been able to work together with Share team, a team specialized in dog-assisted therapy. This allows us to enjoy the benefits of these interventions, creating a space where the bond between child and dog becomes the central axis of therapeutic progress.

The dog will support the child in his most difficult moments, comfort him when difficulties seem insurmountable, and celebrate every achievement and success along the way. All of this makes the therapeutic experience not only effective, but also fun and enriching for the child.

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