New research suggests that therapy dogs can significantly reduce anxiety in children visiting hospital emergency departments, potentially decreasing the need for anxiety medication.

The study, conducted by the University of Saskatchewan’s College of Medicine, examined the impact of therapy dogs on children experiencing acute anxiety in emergency room settings. Researchers found that children who interacted with therapy dogs reported lower anxiety levels, and doctors were less likely to prescribe anxiety-reducing medications for those patients.

“Our findings indicate that therapy dogs provide meaningful emotional support to children during stressful hospital visits,” said Dr. Colleen Dell, the study’s lead researcher and professor at the University of Saskatchewan.

The study, published in PLOS ONE, involved children aged 5 to 17 who were receiving care in the emergency department. Participants who spent time with a therapy dog showed reduced anxiety symptoms when compared to children who did not interact with a dog. Researchers also noted that medical staff were less likely to recommend pharmaceutical intervention for anxiety in patients who engaged with therapy dogs.

Dr. Dell explained that the presence of therapy dogs appeared to calm children by providing comfort and a sense of security, making their overall hospital experience less distressing.

The research adds to growing evidence supporting the mental health benefits of therapy animals in clinical settings. While therapy dogs are increasingly present in healthcare environments, this study highlights their potential to reduce reliance on medication for anxiety management in pediatric patients.

The University of Saskatchewan team plans to continue researching the role of therapy animals in various healthcare scenarios, exploring additional ways they can support patient well-being.