FOREIGN EXPERIENCE OF ORGANIZATIONS’ AND INSTITUTIONS’ ACTIVITIES IN THE FIELD OF CANISTHERAPY

Abstract

The article presents a comprehensive content analysis of international experience in the activities of organizations and institutions operating in the field of canistherapy as an effective form of animal-assisted therapy. The study reveals the theoretical foundations and practical applications of using specially trained dogs within healthcare, education, social work, and rehabilitation systems. The activities of international and national canistherapy organizations in the United States, European countries, and Israel are analyzed, with particular attention to specialist and therapy-dog training, certification and licensing procedures, implementation of therapeutic programs, and interdisciplinary cooperation. The article identifies the main target groups of canistherapy services, including children with special educational needs, persons with disabilities, older adults, patients with post-traumatic stress disorder, military personnel, and veterans. The review of foreign scientific studies demonstrates the positive impact of interaction with therapy dogs on emotional well-being, stress reduction, social adaptation, communication skills, and overall quality of life. Canistherapy is shown to be widely applied in medical institutions, educational settings, nursing homes, hospices, children’s hospitals, libraries, and military rehabilitation programs. The findings indicate that most foreign canistherapy organizations operate within a systematic and interdisciplinary framework, combining research, practical interventions, and educational activities. They play a key role in developing professional standards, ensuring quality control, promoting evidence-based practice, and raising public awareness of animal-assisted interventions. The article substantiates the relevance and feasibility of adapting international experience to Ukrainian conditions, especially in the context of the growing need for psychosocial rehabilitation of military personnel, veterans, children, and other vulnerable groups. The study outlines prospects for further research, including the evaluation of program effectiveness, development of national standards, and integration of canistherapy into Ukraine’s social and rehabilitation service system