The role of animal-assisted interventions in a range of health care scenarios

Project Ref: PHDSS1722. The well-being benefits of animal-assisted interventions have been demonstrated in specific areas of health care but are less researched in more general human health areas e.g. healthy aging, support for those with life-limiting conditions. Involvement of a companion animal may have implications for care-givers where help is required to look after an animal and there are welfare considerations for keeping animals under these conditions. If mobility is an issue, e.g. in an aging population, fish may be the most practical companion animals. There is evidence that watching fish in both home and public aquaria reduces anxiety and stress, and improves relaxation; it is likely that the presence of nature, even in an artificial setting, can have psychological benefits. Whether it is the natural component (live fish) or the visual stimulation of a fish tank which causes these effects is less researched. This Ph.D. project will investigate the effects of fish tanks in a variety of health care settings (e.g. care homes, community settings, hospices). A variety of different qualitative and quantitative measures will be used to assess impacts of fish tanks for both focal groups and their carers, compared with video displays and alternative therapets. The project will consider animal welfare in these settings with an overall aim of providing a beneficial intervention that would be sustainable across the health care industry.