Animal-Assisted Therapy

Supporting emotional and psychological well-being

In recent years, animal-assisted therapy has gained attention in health and psychological

research as an effective, low-barrier approach to supporting emotional and physiological

well-being. On university campuses, therapy dog programs are now commonly integrated into wellness initiatives, particularly during periods of increased academic demand. While these programs are often associated with comfort and enjoyment, research in psychology and health sciences suggests that their benefits are supported by measurable biological and psychological effects.

Animal-assisted therapy involves structured interactions between individuals and trained animals, typically dogs, under the supervision of certified handlers. These interactions are

designed to promote positive emotional states and reduce physiological markers of stress. Studies indicate that even brief exposure to therapy animals can produce meaningful changes in stress-related outcomes, making these programs particularly suitable for large student bodies.

One of the most widely studied effects on animal-assisted therapy is its influence on physiological stress responses. Stress activates the body’s hypothalamic pituitary adrenal (HPA) axis, leading to the release of cortisol, commonly referred to as the “stress hormone.” Elevated cortisol levels over time are associated with anxiety, sleep disruption, and impaired concentration. Research has shown that interacting with therapy dogs can lead to reductions in cortisol levels, suggesting that animal interactions may help regulate the body’s stress response.

In addition to lowering cortisol, animal interaction has been linked to increases in oxytocin, a

hormone involved in social bonding, trust, and emotional regulation. Higher oxytocin levels are associated with reduced anxiety and great feelings of calm and safety. These hormonal changes may help explain why students report feeling more relaxed and emotionally balanced after spending time with therapy dogs. Other physiological factors, such as reduced heart rate and blood pressure, further support the idea that animal-assisted therapy can activate the body’s relaxation response, even during short sessions.

Psychologically, animal-based therapy has been associated with improvements and reductions in perceived stress. Studies involving post-secondary students have found that participants often report lower anxiety and greater positive affect following therapy animal visits. These benefits may be especially valuable for students who experience academic burnout and fatigue, as therapy animals provide a calming presence without the social demands that sometimes accompany peer interactions.

Another important factor contributing to the effectiveness of animal-assited therapy is its role in promoting social connection. Animals can function as social facilitators, encouraging interaction among students and creating opportunities for casual conversation. Feeling connected to campus life and supported by peers has been linked to improved emotional resilience and lower levels of stress.

From a public health perspective, animal-assisted therapy programs offer a relatively low-cost and scalable intervention that can benefit large numbers of students. By integrating scientifically supported wellness activities into campus life, universities can promote preventative approaches to mental health rather than relying solely on crisis-based services.

By: Laura Merrin