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The beneficial effect of animal company on persons at any age is well known. Increasing emphasis has also been given to the healthy role of animal company on persons affected by both somatic and mental disorders. Pet therapy plays an important role in psychological, educational and physical rehabilitation, and aims to improve the well-being of patients as a whole and improve their quality of life. The favorable role of pet therapy has been observed, particularly among elderly. The frequent co-occurrence of cognitive and mood disorders, psychotic and anxiety symptoms make elderly persons especially suitable for treatments based on affective–emotional motivation and psychological stimulation. Unfortunately, this therapeutic approach has very little scientific data supporting its effectiveness. This might be a result of difficulties in designing and carrying out research with animals. This study aims to evaluate the effects of a pet therapy intervention on elderly patients affected by different psychiatric diseases, living in a nursing home in a wealthy area of northern Italy. Main outcomes are cognitive function, mood and subjective perception of quality of life.

Source: Psychogeriatrics, 2010
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/toc/14798301/2011/11/2