A study presented at the American Roentgen Ray Society (ARRS) Annual Meeting found that animal therapy can help reduce anxiety in patients undergoing magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Dr. Richard Ruchman from Monmouth Medical Center explained that anxiety during MRI scans is common, often leading to early scan termination or poor-quality images.
In the study, patients interacted with a certified therapy dog before their MRI, resulting in a noticeable reduction in anxiety levels. The findings suggest that animal-assisted therapy could serve as a valuable alternative to medication, offering a calming distraction for patients prior to the procedure.
Dr. Carolyn Cidis Meltzer, a certified therapy dog handler, emphasized the growing integration of animal therapy into healthcare settings. She noted its benefits in various patient populations, including those in hospitals, nursing homes, and rehabilitation centers.
