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Description
This capstone project was created to equip Pineville Independent Schools, located in rural Kentucky, with the tools and strategies needed to implement and sustain an Animal-Assisted Therapy (AAT) program within their occupational therapy services. Although the district uniquely employs both a licensed occupational therapist and a veterinarian who teaches animal care and vocational skills to students, neither professional had experience with AAT or knowledge of its potential integration within the school system. This revealed a significant gap and an opportunity for innovative program development in a rural educational setting. The primary goals were to design a school-based AAT framework that fostered collaboration between therapeutic and veterinary disciplines, supported student outcomes and animal welfare, and provided sustainable resources to guide implementation.
AAT is gaining recognition for its ability to support physical, emotional, sensory, and social outcomes, particularly in pediatric and school-based settings. While literature supports its effectiveness, barriers such as lack of formal training, misconceptions about animal welfare, and limited policy structure continue to hinder its application. This project addressed those needs through targeted education, interdisciplinary collaboration, and community involvement.
Project methods included staff interviews, administrative and team meetings, the creation of a collaborative AAT Program Development Binder, and a hands-on education event at my family farm in Tennessee. I also shared lessons learned from Island Dolphin Care and my background with animal-assisted interventions. This experience allowed me to grow as a leader and advocate, expanded the role of occupational therapy in non-traditional settings, and introduced a meaningful, evidence-based service model to a Kentucky school system.
Graduation Date
2025
Disciplines
Occupational Therapy
Degree Type
Open Access Capstone
Document Type
Poster
Degree Name
Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD)
Department
Occupational Therapy
Site Mentor
Mitchell Wilder, OTR/L
Comments
Link to Presentation: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gUpsaIOIMLc