Companion animals and animal-assisted interventions provide mental health benefits to humans. Understanding both the benefits and the welfare implications of therapeutic animal use supports ethical practice.
The therapeutic relationship between humans and animals creates genuine value for both parties when welfare of the animal is adequately protected. Therapy animals that are well-matched to the work, given adequate rest and choice in interaction, and monitored for signs of stress can have good welfare while providing significant human benefit. However, animals pressed into excessive service, denied choice in interaction, or inadequately screened for suitability can suffer in therapeutic roles. Care farming and green care settings need clear welfare protocols for the animals involved. The human-animal bond in therapeutic contexts does not suspend animal welfare obligations — if anything it strengthens them.