Animal-assisted interactions at the macro level: Filling a gap in practice:
the development of the pats protocol
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During my macro-level field placement (Spring 2024), I researched the literature for any available evidence-based protocols that could guide school districts in the safe and effective implementation of therapy dog programs in schools. The results of that literature search were presented at the 2024 International Association of Veterinary Social Workers (IAVSW) at Cleveland State University, and also formed the basis for the outline of a protocol to implement therapy dog programs in K-12 schools.
In Winter/Spring/Summer/Fall 2024, I co-authored the book, Therapy Dogs in Schools: An Evidence-Based Protocol for Best Practice. The book outlines the Professional Application of Therapy Dogs in Schools (PATS) protocol. The PATS protocol provides K–12 school professionals with a structured sequence for planning, implementing, and evaluating a school-based therapy dog program that ensures community safety, attends to animal welfare, and maximizes program impact. Therapy dog program goals include improved emotional, behavioral, and academic outcomes and promoting a positive school culture. Leading researchers in the field of animal-assisted interventions and services cite the critical need for this type of protocol, especially as the number of dogs in schools has risen dramatically in the last decade. The PATS protocol is the first evidence-based guide to provide administrators, staff, and therapy dog handlers with tools to plan, implement, and evaluate a school-based therapy dog program. Currently, there are no laws governing the incorporation of therapy dogs in schools. The PATS protocol has the potential to increase the professionalism of therapy dog program implementation by addressing school safety, ensuring canine welfare, and maximizing program outcomes. This book is for school professionals and volunteers alike, to identify how to maintain a therapy dog program and how to support the school community when it is time to retire a therapy dog. |
Available March 2026
Foreward by Aubrey H. Fine, PsyD., Emeritus, Cal Poly Pomona
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