Abstract
This research aimed to collect comprehensive knowledge and experiences regarding the
formulation of policies for therapy dogs. The objective was to prepare detailed policy proposals
and alternatives by using a scoping literature review and in-depth interviews with 35 experts, as
well as group discussions with 61 stakeholders, including patients, hospital staff, and
policymakers.
The research found that Animal-Assisted Therapy (AAT) policies involve various parties,
from direct practitioners to healthcare facilities and policymakers, and cover regulations on animal
welfare, training, infection control, and budget allocation. Interviews with experts highlighted the
significant potential of therapy dogs to assist patients psychologically, particularly those with
depression, and to help reduce anxiety and stress. They identified hospitals as the ideal starting
point due to their readiness. However, a key challenge is the lack of qualified therapy dogs in
Thailand, despite the large dog population. This underscores the need for clear standards, quality
control, and expert personnel. The high cost of operations and training was also identified as a
significant factor.
Based on the stakeholder discussions, two primary policy proposals were developed, with
a focus on implementation through the National Health Security Office (NHSO):
1. Recreational Dog Policy: This proposal suggests using dogs for recreational activities
to help people relax and reduce stress while waiting for services.
2. Therapy Dog Policy (Dog-Assisted Therapy: DAT): This policy would position dogs as
a complementary therapy to support treatment and care. It would help reduce anxiety, improve
communication, and instill discipline, targeting patients in general medical facilities, rehabilitation
centers, and care facilities for the elderly or drug addicts.
The study proposes that the NHSO should play a key role in driving these policies by
declaring DAT a type of service in its benefit package and establishing service standards. This
would also involve strengthening the public sector's ability to co-manage services and supporting
civil society organizations as public health service providers.
Additionally, other policy alternatives, such as a Companion Dog Policy for emotional
support and an Assistance Dog Policy for individuals with physical limitations, were also
mentioned.
The policy proposals from this study have already been presented to the Working Group
for patient networks in the National Health Security System and will be presented to other relevant
agencies in the future to further advance the adoption of these policies.
