Animal-assisted therapy (AAT) is the therapeutic inclusion of animals in therapy sessions to promote client engagement and goal attainment. It can be utilized by occupational therapists and preliminary shows positive outcomes for children and adolescents with a variety of disabilities. This capstone is an evidence-based business plan establishing a small private occupational therapy practice that utilizes a certified AAT dog during therapy sessions. The dog would incentivize participation by serving as a motivational tool, a therapy participant, and a reward to clients. Targeted clientele would include children ages 4-18 with needs in the areas of fine motor, self-care, self-regulation, and executive functioning.
