LH Canine Therapy Study

Launched by UNIVERSITY OF CHICAGO · Apr 21, 2023

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

The LH Canine Therapy Study is looking at how working with trained dogs can help young people manage their emotions and improve their self-esteem. This pilot project is taking place at Lawrence Hall, a treatment center in Chicago for youth who have experienced difficult situations. The study compares two groups: one group participates in a special dog training program, while the other group receives the usual treatment. Researchers want to see if the dog therapy helps increase skills like controlling impulses and feeling more confident, which are important for young people facing mental health challenges. If the results are positive, this could lead to larger studies and wider use of this therapy across the country.

To be eligible for the study, youth must be currently receiving in-patient services at Lawrence Hall and be able to agree to participate. They should be able to stay at the center for the full six weeks of the program and attend at least one of the six therapy sessions. However, youth with serious health issues, severe allergies to dogs, or a fear of animals cannot take part. Participants can expect to engage in fun and meaningful dog training activities that aim to help them develop important emotional skills in a supportive environment.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • Youth must be receiving in-patient services at Lawrence Hall or Lydia Home
• • Youth must provide informed assent.
• • Youth must complete at least one of the primary outcomes during the baseline assessment.
• • Youth must remain in residential care for the duration of the 6-week intervention.
• • Youth assigned to the Recovery \& Care intervention group must attend at least one of the 6 sessions.
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Severe cognitive, psychiatric, or physical condition or limitation that would prevent participation.
• • Severe animal allergy
• • Animal phobia
• • History of mistreatment of animals.