This is a presentation by Ellen Herlache-Pretzer, Ed.D., MA, OTR/L, CPDT-KA on Exploring the Evidence in Animal Assisted Services (AAS).

Part I will discuss Standards, Ethics, and Outcomes of AAS in General Rehabilitation.

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

1) Identify issues associated with a lack of uniform terminology and standards of practice in AAS research

2) Discuss ethical issues to be considered when conducting research in AAS

3) Describe benefits of AAS in general rehabilitation settings

4) Discuss important factors that must be considered for future research exploring AAS in general rehabilitation settings

Part II will discuss Outcomes of AAS in Mental Health and Pediatrics.

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

1) Identify benefits of AAS with individuals with dementia, depression, and PTSD

2) Describe factors to consider when applying research about AAS to children with ASD

3) Describe the general effectiveness of AAS compared to other forms of intervention for individuals with a variety of mental health conditions

4) Discuss important factors that must be considered for future research exploring AAS in mental health and pediatric settings

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.