A Study to Evaluate Animal-assisted Therapy in Stroke Rehabilitation

Integrating Animal-assisted Therapy in Stroke Rehabilitation: a Randomized Controlled Trial Assessing the Impact on Psychological State and Functional Recovery of Patients, as Well as Wellbeing of Therapy Dogs

The investigators hypothesize that the presence of a Mayo Clinic certified therapy dog will provide additional benefits above typical treatment for patients currently enrolled in the Mayo Clinic Stroke Rehabilitation Unit.

The objectives of this study are to measure the effects of a therapy dog embedded in stroke rehabilitation sessions on the patients' functional recovery, depression, anxiety, motivation, and quality of life.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Patient must be 18 years of age or older.
• Patient must be in the comprehensive in-patient stroke rehabilitation program.
• Patient must have a stroke from any cause.
• Patients must be able and willing to give informed consent.
• Patients must be able to speak English as the questionnaires being used are only available in English.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Patient who has a pacemaker.
• Patient who is pregnant.
• Patient who is deemed inappropriate to the study by the medical professional.
• Patient who is unable to give informed consent.
• Patient who is unable to speak English.