Spinal Unit Launches Animal Assisted Therapy Program
The Spinal Unit at Santa Corona Hospital in Pietra Ligure is launching a new animal-assisted therapy initiative called “Fidati della mia Zampa” (Trust My Paw) to support patients recovering from spinal cord injuries. The program begins by the end of October and runs through May 2027.
Organized in collaboration with the association Pet Therapy Doctor Dog APS and supported by the Fondazione Banca delle Visite ETS, the initiative consists of 12 sessions held every two weeks. Healthcare staff within the unit will coordinate the activities to align with the clinical needs and daily routines of admitted patients.
Hospital officials designed the project to address aspects of recovery that standard medical treatments do not cover. According to the Spinal Unit, rehabilitation after a spinal cord injury requires attention to a patient’s physical, psychological, relational, and social well-being rather than focusing solely on the injury itself.
Animal interactions foster emotional well-being for spinal patients
The therapy sessions serve as a complementary addition to standard care rather than a replacement for conventional medical rehabilitation. Interacting with animals aims to foster emotional well-being, encourage communication, and increase social participation during long hospital stays.
Antonino Massone, director of the Spinal Unit at Santa Corona Hospital, stated that a spinal cord injury changes a person’s life profoundly without erasing their potential, desires, or right to plan a future. Massone noted that animal interactions can spark positive emotions and break up the demanding routine of a hospital stay, though he cautioned against viewing the program as a miraculous cure.
The project reflects a long-standing approach at the Pietra Ligure facility aimed at treating patients as individuals with active aspirations and relationships. Massone thanked Pet Therapy Doctor Dog APS, the Fondazione Banca delle Visite ETS, and the hospital staff for organizing the initiative.
Program Schedule at Santa Corona Hospital
- Start Date: Late October
- End Date: May 2027
- Frequency: 12 bi-weekly sessions
- Collaborators: Pet Therapy Doctor Dog APS and Fondazione Banca delle Visite ETS
- Location: Spinal Unit, Santa Corona Hospital, Pietra Ligure
Who participates in Santa Corona Hospital pet therapy?
Who is eligible to participate in the therapy sessions?
The sessions are intended for patients admitted to the Spinal Unit at Santa Corona Hospital. The clinical team tailors participation based on each patient’s specific health condition and care requirements.
Who provides the animals and runs the sessions?
Specialists from the association Pet Therapy Doctor Dog APS conduct the visits. They work directly alongside the hospital’s medical and healthcare staff to manage the program.
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