Introduction

This chapter introduces and contextualizes canine-assisted interventions (CAIs) for readers. An overview of the contexts in which CAIs are found is provided, including a purview of the corresponding research in support of each context. Reasons fueling the popularity of CAIs are offered, as is the identification of two key challenges facing the field: (1) variability in terminology and (2) variability in assessment practices used to identify therapy dogs and their handlers. Terminology associated with CAIs is defined, and particular attention is paid to defining the role of a therapy dog, distinguishing therapy dogs from working, service, and helping dogs. Readers are provided a brief description of each forthcoming chapter of the book and a graphic of the credentialing process is introduced, laying the foundation for the chapters that follow.