There are many ways Abington-Jefferson Hospital (AJH) incorporates holistic practices in a clinical setting and animal-assisted therapy (AAT) or pet therapy is only one conventional method used. However, let’s review the connection between this health system and the core values of American Holistic Nurses Association (AHNA) Core Values and Standards of Practice. The vision of Abington Hospital is to be the most trusted healthcare partner and the mission is to promote healing, prevent harm and be kind. According to Erickson (2012), AHNA’s Core Value the backbone of Holistic Nursing vitality and interdependence of all things, including consciousness, the nurse as a healer, being available and caring, operating with purpose, and unconditional…show more content… Dossey and Keegan tell us that “for many people, relationships with animals are just as important as relationships with people” (p.487) which confirms my findings as I explored AAT or pet therapy at AJH. I have to opportunity to observe and assist with AAT in the rehab department; Bailey motivated patients to walk longer distances as they followed her and to use their upper extremity range of motion to give her high fives and pet her coat. Nevertheless, the therapy dog is not only for the patients but I witnessed the brightening of patients, staff, and visitors spirits as they encountered Bailey. Coakley and Mahoney (2009) reports on a study conducted in 2003 that confirms the benefits Pet Therapy as an evidence-based practice with 59 patients hospitalized patients (p. 141). Moreover, these individuals baselines were documented for pain, respiratory rate and negative mood state and perceived energy level there was a significant improve post-pet therapy (2009, Coakley and Mahoney, p. 141). According to Coakley and Mahoney (2009), “quantitative and qualitative findings provide support for decreased tension/anxiety and fatigue/inertia and improved overall mood”(p.…show more content… They are registered with the Alliance of Therapy Dogs - Nationwide Therapy Dog Association in Wyoming, PA. Paula explained the process to become registered as a pet therapist. She stated, first, the dog is tested for aggression toward other dogs, the tester also observes the owner-dog interaction and the dogs obedience to the owner and lastly, the dog is tested in a clinical setting with patients. Bailey attended obedience school prior to becoming a registered pet therapist; although, it was explained that dog's personality must innately be geared toward socialization, even tempered and well mannered to even be considered for a therapy dog. Obedience school does not prepare the animal but enhances the qualities to bond and motivate others because the dog is obedient and well
