The study may also be limited by lack of comparison to other
AAT dogs. This dog, a 13-year old springer spaniel, was incredibly
skilled at working with children and adults. Anecdotal evidence of
the many therapeutic outcomes facilitated by this dog was the
impetus for this research study. Controlled comparisons with other
trained animal therapists are warranted to determine the effectiveness of AAT pain reduction by other animal therapists. Also, this
study did not determine the duration of pain relief for these children. Future research should explore the onset and length of pain
relief over time