Animal-assisted interventions, sometimes referred to as therapy animals, are an opportunity for some. As defined by IIAAPT (International Institute for Animal Assisted Play Therapy®), AAPT has been defined as “the integrated involvement of animals in the context of play therapy, in which appropriately-trained therapists and animals engage with child, family, & adult clients primarily in play interventions aimed at improving the client’s psychosocial health, while simultaneously ensuring the animal’s well-being and voluntary engagement in the process. Play and playfulness are essential ingredients of the interactions & the relationship” (VanFleet, 2013). Animal-assisted interventions (AAI) can promote improvement in human physical, social, emotional, and/or cognitive functioning.

Our relationship with animals can, and do, hold special places in our lives and memories.

Animals are our friends and family members by offering comfort, companionship, entertainment, and unconditional love.

Most importantly, our animals are animals first and that’s what we want them to do – be true to themselves.

We believe in trusting, respectful relationships and we share these relationship tools with you to promote continued growth. We play to our dogs’ and cats’ strengths by “allowing them to choose to interact directly, play alongside, and/or sit back and watch the session.”

All animals are training to be certified in Animal Assisted Play Therapy™ with the International Institute for Animal Assisted Play Therapy®.

“All animals have been assessed for appropriateness to work with kids, teens, and adults, as well as received additional specialized training alongside their human therapists.”

Just like us, our dogs get tired and need breaks. We cannot guarantee our animals will be consistently present. However, when the animals are in the office, they are ready to share their love.

Should you be interested in moving forward with AAPT, please request and sign the consent form.