literature may show some positive benefits for this form of alternative treatment, it should be understood that strong confidence cannot be placed in findings until more thoroughly controlled research is conducted.
Second, while investigations of the effects of pet therapy have been conducted across a wide variety of patient populations, there have been very few studies that specifically examined its efficacy with respect to samples of terminally ill patients. Therefore, in order to determine whether it can be used effectively for reducing the pain and suffering of those who are terminally ill, this information must be derived, for the most part, from studies using other related samples.
With the foregoing kept in mind, one of the first points that might be noted is that the population suffering from the majority of terminal illnesses is the elderly population. Interestingly, there are studies providing reason to believe that pet therapy may be particularly beneficial for this group.
For example, Graf (1999) conducted a qualitative study of the effects of pets on elderly people. It was noted that interactions with their pets (cats, dogs, and birds) were associated with several emotional benefits to frail, elderly people. These benefits included increases in happiness and joy. Older people also felt that interacting with their animals helped them to overcome the passivity of old age.
Based on the findings of this study, Graf (1999) strongly recommended that nursing homes and other agencies caring for the elderly include pets as "part of the family" and integrate these into nursing work with older people. It was further noted that many older people actually experience some stress in relation to their pets. Specifically, they fear what might happen to the pet when they die. Graf states if older people understand that the pet is part of the nursing home and will continue to be cared for after they have died, this can greatly r...