São João, a prominent public university hospital in Portugal, recently launched the “Pets and Company” initiative, allowing patients to receive visits from their pets. This program aims to combat isolation and alleviate the stress of long hospital stays, recognizing the therapeutic benefits that animals can provide.
Overview of the Initiative:
- Collaboration: The project involves multiple health professionals from the One Health São João program, Infection Control Unit, and Humanisation service.
- Historical Context: Animal-assisted therapy has roots dating back to the 19th century in countries like the UK and Germany, with formal recognition emerging in the 1960s.
Protocol for Pet Visits:
- Eligibility: Visits are not universally available; they require assessment from health professionals, considering both the patient’s clinical needs and infection-control protocols.
- Safety Measures: A veterinary certificate confirming the pet’s vaccinations and behavior is mandatory, ensuring that only suitable animals are allowed.
- Supervision: Pets must always be accompanied by an adult and can only visit patients deemed appropriate by the medical team.
Patient Experience:
Patients, especially the terminally ill or those with long-term stays, have been prioritized. Many patients report significant emotional boosts from these reunions, as illustrated by the heartwarming story of António and his dog, Princesa. His emotional response emphasizes the deep bond between patients and their pets and the motivation it gives them in their recovery journey.
Conclusion:
So far, the initiative has not reported any infections, indicating a successful balance between empathy and healthcare protocols. São João aims to continue refining its procedures, ensuring that the benefits of pet visits outweigh potential risks, fostering an environment of care and compassion in the hospital setting.
