Animal Assisted Therapy in COPD

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a preventable chronic inflammatory lung disease characterized by persistent obstruction to airflow through the lungs, usually caused by harmful inhaled particles. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), COPD is the third leading cause of death worldwide (WHO, 2021).

Under the leadership of Dr. Erika Penz (COPD specialist) and Dr. Colleen Dell (AAT specialist), two exploratory patient-oriented projects have been completed with a patient-family advisory group in the joint area of AAT in COPD.

1. Exploratory Focus Groups Themes: Benefits of therapy dogs include impact on identity and purpose; anxiety and stress; routine; negate blame and stigma; companionship; manage health.

• Exploratory Patient & Family Digital Story: Available here!

Our patient-oriented team is currently writing an article, led by student Julia Visentini, that will serve as the foundation for the development and evaluation of an AAT in COPD intervention.

Funding to date has been provided by a University of Saskatchewan Respiratory Research Centre Team Building Grant & the Office of One Health and Wellness. Special recognition is given to the memory of our team member, Fred.