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Journal of Holistic Nursing, Vol. 24, No. 1, 51-57 (2006)
DOI: 10.1177/0898010105280112
© 2006 American Holistic Nurses Association

Canine Visitation (Pet) Therapy

Pilot Data on Decreases in Child Pain Perception

Elisa J. Sobo, PhD

San Diego State University

Brenda Eng, RN, MN, CPNP

Children's Hospital and Health Center

Nadine Kassity-Krich, MBA, BSN, RN

Contemplative Care Consultants

Purpose:To explore the effectiveness of canine visitation therapy (CVT) in pediatric pain management in a tertiary care children's hospital, a descriptive pilot study was conducted. Method:A convenience sample of 25 English-speaking children ages 5 to 18 years who underwent surgery and experienced acute postoperative pain participated in a standard, one-time CVT intervention. Each child completed a pre-post survey and a postintervention interview. Findings: Quantitative pre-post findings indicate that CVT significantly reduced perceived pain. Qualitative findings suggest that one mechanism that makes CVT effective may be cognitive. That is, CVTdistracts children from pain-related cognition and possibly activates comforting thoughts regarding companionship or home. Conclusion:The study findings suggest that CVT may be a useful adjunct to traditional pain management for children. Implications:Nurses may better serve their patients when CVT is an option.

Key Words: pain management • pediatric • canine visitation therapy • animal-assisted therapy • complementary/alternative medicin


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