Özet:

Animal assisted theraphy is a situation in which animals are used as part of a structured form of theraphy. The history of the use of animals as adjuncts to theraphy dates back before recorded history but the first recorded therapeutic setting has been launched by William Tuke with farm animals for persons with mental illness in 1792. The theraphy with companion (pet) animals was first implemented in West Germany as part of the treatment of epileptic patients in 1867. There are numerous specialized settings with a variety of populations that can benefit from Animal Assisted Therapies. These include the elderly, patients with terminal illnesses, hospital patients, children, and inmates in correctional facilities. Dogs, cats, farm animals, birds, dolphins and others are use in these therapies. The first scientific Animal Assisted Therapy practices to elderly and disabled groups has started in Turkey with using horses and dogs. This study was carried out to give examples on Animal Assisted Theraphy Practices which become a current topic in Turkey and provide data for other studies.

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