Low risk of transmission of pathogenic bacteria between children and the assistance dog during animal-assisted therapy if strict rules are followed.

This study explored the bacterial transmission between patients and dogs during dog-assisted therapy (DAT). Twenty children (55% girls) with a median age of 7 years (range 3-17 years) were included. Two dogs assisted and the conditions were more restricted hygienically with dog 2. Samples from child and dog were collected and cultured before and after each DAT visit. The results showed that dog 1 transmitted bacteria repeatedly to the children. No bacteria were transmitted with dog 2. In conclusion, exchange of bacteria can occur between dog and child during DAT, but it can be reduced by simple infection control measures.