Humanizing psychiatry through connection. Results of a dog-assisted intervention in a psychiatric rehabilitation hospital.
Keywords:
Animal Assisted Therapy, Psychiatric Rehabilitation, Mood Disorders, Mental Health, Psychiatric Nursing, Human-Animal BondAbstract
Background: Animal-assisted interventions have shown therapeutic benefits in mental health settings. This study evaluates the impact of a dog-assisted intervention in a psychiatric rehabilitation hospital, using a qualitative approach focused on emotional bonding and perceived patient well-being.
Objective: To analyze the perceived effects of a dog-assisted intervention in patients with mood disorders admitted to a psychiatric rehabilitation unit, exploring emotional, social, and functional dimensions.
Methodology: Descriptive qualitative study based on participant observation and post-session focus groups during an eight-week intervention. Twelve patients diagnosed with mood disorders participated. Thematic content analysis was applied to field notes collected after each session.
Results: Five main themes were identified: emotional improvement, enhanced social interaction, development of meaningful bonds with animals, promotion of healthy routines, and mutual care awareness. Patients reported emotional relief, increased motivation, greater social engagement, and genuine affective expression. The intervention was experienced as meaningful and left a lasting impact.
Conclusion: The dog-assisted intervention provided significant benefits to the subjective experience of patients, contributing to the humanization of psychiatric care. Its integration as a complementary therapy is recommended, along with further large-scale studies.
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