Animals were first used therapeutically in York, England in 1792. Pet therapy began with researchers in the 1970's. Since then, pet assisted therapy has become a valid part time job. Most participants are volunteers, but some would like to develop it into a full time career.
There are several thousand pet therapy dogs in the United States. There are over 200 therapy groups in the US; The Washington-based Delta Society is the largest with 4500 pet and partner teams- they visit about a million people each year.
The majority of pets used are cats and dogs. However, rabbits, ferrets, birds, and some other animals including pot-bellied pigs and miniature horses are also used. Prospective pets are screened for health, behavior, temperment, and how well they are controlled by their handler. A temperment test exposes the pet to wheelchairs, loud noises, and other things the pet might not normally encounter.
Studies show that contact with an animal reduces anxiety, depression, and loneliness. Pet therapy is used in nursing homes, hospitals, and other care facilities. Pet owners themselves are more likely to have lower blood pressure, lower cholesterol, and better recovery from a heart attack than non-pet owners. Patients who recieve pet therapy have similar benefits, such as:
Pet therapy is also used with school children to prevent later violence. 
There are no official regulations for pet assisted therapy; for a list of guidelines, contact
Patricia A. Nolan, MD, MPH
Director of Health
Cannon Building
3 Capitol Hill
Providence, RI 02908-5097
The following colleges offer certificate programs in Pet Assisted Therapy : Community College of Rhode Island(RI), Mercy College in Dobs Ferry(NY), Camden Community College(NJ), and Harcum Junior College(PA).
If you or your pet are interested in volunteering in Pet Assisted Therapy contact: Holly Rice, Volunteer Coordinator for The Potter League for Animals ; Michelle Squeo, Volunteer Administrator for Providence Animal Rescue League ; or the East Bay, Pawtucket, or Providence Chapter of Volunteer Services for Animals .
You can also contact a veterinarian's office, local obedience school, local hospital or nursing home to find out about a program. Organizations nationwide are listed on this website: Dog-play .
According to the Delta Society, a good candidate for being a therapy animal is "sociable, predictable, and... enjoys people".
Contact The Delta Society
Contact Therapy Dogs Inc. for cerification and registration programs.
