Animals are being introduced into hospital settings in ever-increasing numbers. Emerging literature suggests that incorporating trained animals to assist with medical care and rehabilitation therapies can promote patient engagement, reduce emotional distress and relieve some aspects of physiologic burden. Below, we outline some basic considerations for ICU providers interested in incorporating animals into care programmes. Although limited, early evidence suggests that AAA/AAT is a therapeutic activity that has potential to reduce stress and suffering in ICU patients.

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