Foster Puppies as Therapeutic Partners: A Model for Mutual Benefit

Abstract Ample research points to the positive impact of nonhuman animals on humans and the benefits of animal-assisted therapy ( AAT ) on patients in multiple settings. However, AAT is often a one-sided enterprise, whereby the focus of concern for benefit and growth is centered on the human, and less, or not at all, on the nonhuman animal. We present a model that emphasizes approximate equal benefit for human and nonhuman animals. A treatment approach is described that combines socialization and training of homeless dogs and puppies to increase adoption rates and assess for suitability as therapy or working dogs, with rehabilitating and supporting clients. This model of mutual benefit demonstrates prosocial behavior for clients who participate in the socialization and preparation of homeless puppies for permanent homes in combination with their existing therapeutic goals and is rich territory for symbolic exploration. A case study is presented as an illustration of the model.