Forget Laughter - animals are the best medicine

SUSSEX COUNTY LPN PROGRAM PHARMACOLOGY WORKSHEET

Drug:

Generic: canis therapis
Trade: Therapy Dog

Approved Manufacturers:

Therapy Dogs International 201-543-0888
Therapy Dogs Incorporated 307-638-3223
Delta Society 206-226-7357

Forms/dosages available:

Nearly infinite variety, from 3Kg Chihuahuas to 70Kg Mastiffs. Among the preferred forms are Collies, Golden Retrievers, and others with soft, fluffy coats which provide superior tactile stimulation.

Classification:

Anti-depressant, analgesic, anti-hypertensive

Action/Uses:

Recommended to alleviate depression, anxiety, and stress in the homebound or institutionalized patient.
Can stimulate spontaneous performance of active ROM exercises, especially of the hand. Can relax pre-existing contractures due to arthritis.
Increases motivation to get out of bed in the morning.
Decreases blood pressure. (1)
Contributes to survival rate post-MI. (1)
Decrease risk of the "helplessness/hopelessness" syndrome associated with greater rates of invasive cancer and vulnerability to sudden death accidents.
Has been seen to increase awareness in the cognitively impaired.
Stimulates social interaction, as patients anticipate their medication, or share memories of the experience.

Side Effects/Adverse Reactions:

Allergic reactions, fear and anxiety have been noted in some patients. (In some cases, alternate drugs in this classification, such as felis therapis, can provide the same therapeutic effects without the adverse effects. However, it must be remembered that these drugs are often not produced under the same strict quality standards.)

Some patients may become dependent on the medication; however, this is not necessarily an undesirable effect.

Still other patients may become over-stimulated; in such a case, a reduced dose or alternate medication may suffice.

Dosage/Route:

Recommended route is topical application, ideally between the lap and the palm of the hand. Wet applications to the cheek have also been found to be effective. Usually prescribed prn with no limits on frequency of application.

Nursing Responsibilities With This Drug:

Assess for therapeutic effect: Increased smiles, social stimulation, physical movement; reduced BP, anxiety, loneliness.

Provide a quiet environment for the administration of the medication. Best results are obtained from one-on-one interaction without excessive or unnecessary interruptions.

Assess the dosage required. Some patients can not handle excessive stimulation, and may benefit from a reduced dose of a similar med, such as a cage of brightly colored birds in the day room.

Check patient's history prior to administration, looking for allergies and phobias. If possible, consult a friend or relative regarding the patient's past reactions toward animals.

Assess for signs of allergy or fear. D/C use if either occur.

Footnotes:
(1) Dr. Alan Katcher, associate professor of psychiatry, University of Pennsylvania

Copyright 1995, Roberta Taylor, LPN.