This is a presentation by Ellen Herlache-Pretzer, ED.D., MA, OTR/L, CPDT-KA on Designing and Implementing Research Studies in Animal-Assisted Services (AAS): Key Considerations.

Learning objectives: By the end of this presentation, learners will be able to:

1) Discuss the value of high-quality research in Animal-Assisted Services

2) Identify ethical issues to be considered when conducting research in Animal-Assisted Services

3) Describe the key components of each of the eight stages of the research process

4) Discuss important factors that must be considered at each stage of the research process for ensuring that research maintains a focus on AAS

About Ellen Herlache-Pretzer:

Ellen has been a licensed occupational therapist since 2002, is a professor in the MSOT program at Saginaw Valley State University, has been involved with assistance dogs and animal assisted services since 2000, and is a Certified Professional Dog Trainer, Knowledge Assessed since 2019.