Pet and animal-assisted therapy

The evidence

Studies of animal-assisted therapy in dementia consistently find:

• Reduced agitation and behavioural symptoms;
• Improved mood and engagement;
• Increased social interaction;
• Improved feeding and physical activity in some studies;
• Effect sizes smaller than Cognitive Stimulation Therapy but consistent.

Forms of pet therapy

Living with a pet

For many people, a familiar pet (often a long-loved dog or cat) is a powerful source of comfort and routine. As dementia progresses, the practical work of pet care can shift to family. Decisions about continued pet ownership balance benefit against practical care.

Visiting therapy animals

Trained therapy dogs visit care homes, day services and individual households through Pets As Therapy and similar UK organisations. Sessions are short (30 to 45 minutes), with the handler present throughout. Most participants experience clear mood and engagement benefit.

Robotic pets

Robotic pets such as the PARO seal and various life-like cats and dogs are increasingly used in UK dementia care. Studies find similar benefit to live animals, with practical advantages: no allergies, no care needs, no welfare concerns. PARO is the most studied robotic pet and is used in many care homes and dementia services.

Practical considerations

• Allergies: confirm no allergy to fur or saliva before starting;
• Safety: ensure the animal is suitable for dementia work (calm, trained, vaccinated);
• Hygiene: hand washing after contact; check for skin conditions on the animal;
• Welfare: animals should be working short sessions, not all-day exposure;
• Choice: not everyone likes animals; respect the person's preference.

Where to access in the UK

• Pets As Therapy (PAT): national charity arranging visiting therapy dogs to care homes, hospitals and individual homes;
• Therapy Dogs Nationwide: similar service across the UK;
• Dogs for Good: provides assistance dogs for people living with dementia in their own homes (limited availability);
• Care homes and day services: many include visiting animals or robotic pets in their programmes;
• PARO and other robotic pets: available through dementia equipment providers and some local authorities.

Personal pets in established dementia

Decisions about continuing pet ownership are individual. Considerations:

• Has the person consistently shown comfort with the animal?
• Is there capacity in the household to take on practical care (feeding, walking, vet visits)?
• Are there falls or trip risks from the pet?
• What is the contingency if the person becomes unable to manage at home?

Cinnamon Trust and similar charities support pet owners through illness or end of life and can rehome pets where needed.