Facility Dog for Anxiety in Children

This trial explores how visits from a facility dog and a Child Life Specialist can help children manage anxiety, fear, and coping during hospital stays. Researchers aim to determine if interacting with a facility dog, through mindfulness activities or coloring, can positively affect the child's anxiety levels and heart rate. Children admitted to Children's Hospital Colorado who do not have a fear or allergy to dogs may be eligible to participate. As an unphased trial, this study provides a unique opportunity for children to experience innovative support methods during their hospital stay.

The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It seems focused on the impact of a facility dog on anxiety, so it's unlikely that medication changes are required.

Research shows that therapy dogs can help reduce anxiety in children. Past studies have found that therapy dogs lower anxiety levels in young patients. For instance, children in emergency rooms felt less anxious after spending time with therapy dogs, and parents noticed their children were calmer. Another study discovered that pet therapy eased anxiety in hospitalized children more effectively than other methods.

Researchers are excited about the Facility Dog Intervention for easing anxiety in children because it introduces a unique, hands-on approach to mindfulness that involves direct interaction with a facility dog. Unlike traditional anxiety treatments that might rely on medication or therapy alone, this method provides comfort and engagement through the calming presence of a dog, potentially enhancing the effectiveness of mindfulness techniques. This approach could offer a more immediate and interactive way to help children manage anxiety, making the experience both therapeutic and enjoyable.

Research has shown that facility dogs can help reduce anxiety in children. In this trial, one group of participants will receive a mindfulness coping intervention led by a child life specialist and a facility dog. Studies have found that therapy dogs can lower anxiety levels reported by children and reduce parents' concerns about their child's anxiety during medical visits. Specifically, one study discovered that facility dogs significantly reduced anxiety in children during outpatient procedures. Additionally, pet therapy has decreased anxiety more effectively than other calming activities. These findings suggest that spending time with facility dogs can ease anxiety and improve coping for children in medical settings.¹²³⁶⁷