Dogs, horses, and other animals used in therapeutic and educational programs provide genuine benefits to humans, but their own welfare during these interactions requires careful attention.
The welfare of working therapy animals is a growing area of research and ethical concern. Animals cannot consent to therapeutic work, and their stoic tolerance of stressful interactions can be misread as willingness. Dogs showing subtle avoidance behaviors, stress signals, or reduced engagement need relief from work — not more sessions. Best practices include regular breaks, choice-based interaction, welfare monitoring, and rotation of working animals.