Why It Matters

Therapy dog work is more than a comforting presence—it is a research-supported intervention that, when thoughtfully designed and ethically implemented, contributes to meaningful outcomes across healthcare, education, and social service settings.

A growing body of research demonstrates that animal-assisted interventions (AAI) can reduce stress, anxiety, and physiological indicators of distress while increasing engagement, emotional regulation, and social connection. Therapy dogs serve as powerful co-regulators, helping individuals feel safer, calmer, and more receptive to support.

In Schools

In educational settings, therapy dogs have been shown to:
• Improve reading confidence and fluency
• Reduce test anxiety and classroom stress
• Support social-emotional learning (SEL)
• Increase student engagement and attendance

Children often perceive therapy dogs as nonjudgmental listeners, which lowers barriers to participation and helps build confidence—particularly for reluctant readers or students experiencing anxiety or trauma.

In Hospitals & Healthcare Settings

In healthcare environments, therapy dogs contribute to:
• Reduced patient anxiety and pain perception
• Improved patient cooperation during procedures
• Emotional support for patients and families
• Stress reduction and morale support for staff

For healthcare workers experiencing burnout and compassion fatigue, therapy dog visits provide brief but meaningful moments of relief that support overall workforce well-being.

In Counseling & Social Work

Within counseling, behavioral health, and social work contexts, therapy dogs function as intentional clinical supports, not distractions. Their presence can:
• Help clients regulate emotions during difficult conversations
• Build rapport and trust more quickly
• Support trauma-informed practice
• Increase participation in therapeutic activities

Therapy dogs often serve as bridges—helping clients feel safe enough to engage in care, reflect, and heal.

In Community & Social Services

Across libraries, senior living, hospice, and community programs, therapy dogs reduce isolation, foster connection, and create welcoming environments where people feel seen and valued. These outcomes are especially meaningful for older adults, individuals experiencing grief, and communities navigating collective stress.

Why Structure and Expertise Matter

Research also makes one thing clear: impact is strongest when therapy dog programs are intentionally designed.

 

Outcomes depend on:
• Appropriate handler and animal training
• Ethical standards and welfare considerations
• Clear goals and boundaries
• Integration into existing systems of care
• Ongoing evaluation and sustainability planning

This is where The Koda Project plays a critical role—bridging research, lived experience, and professional practice to ensure therapy dog work is effective, responsible, and lasting.