Yet, there have been instances in which those or even more exotic and unusual species
have been brought into North American hospitals and long-term care facilities, putting …

Many hospitals and long-term care facilities in North America currently permit animals to visit
with their patients; however, the development of relevant infection control and prevention …

Background Animal-assisted intervention (AAI) programs are increasing in popularity, but it
is unknown to what extent therapy animal organizations that provide AAI and the hospitals …

Pet ownership can have health, emotional and social benefits; however, pets can serve as a
source of zoonotic pathogens. One large, regional survey reported more than 75% of …

Animals may be present in healthcare facilities for multiple reasons. Although specific laws
regarding the use of service animals in public facilities were established in the United States …

Highlights•Guidelines have been recently published by the Society for Healthcare
Epidemiology of America on the safe oversite and management of animals in the health care …

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES: Traditionally, researchers have studied hospital pet visiting
programs with the aim of documenting the spread of health benefits; however, few studies if …

JAVMA, Vol 233, No. 3, August 1, 2008 Vet Med Today: Public Veterinary Medicine 395 in
AAI programs. In 1 report, 15 a resident cat that was found to be heavily colonized with …

Background Many human infections are transmitted through contact with animals
(zoonoses), including household pets. Despite this concern, there is limited knowledge of …

Pet-assisted therapy in the nursing home setting, as a vital component of the Eden
Alternative or Human Habitat program, is gaining widespread recognition and …