ABSTRACT
Assistance animals partner with people to meet physical, mental, and emotional needs. Given the recent surge in popularity and demand, it is important to understand the roles these animals fill, the clinical recommendations for assistance animals and the impact assistance animals may have on physical and mental health. Upholding high standards of interaction and safety for both humans and animals is critical. Future studies should continue to rigorously investigate this intervention, while incorporating concepts related to diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging, and should consider the specific biological, social, and psychological processes that emerge due to the interaction between assistance animals and their handlers.
