The Impact of Pet Therapy on Stress Reduction and Academic Performance Among Allied Health Students

Authors

Catherine Brock, University of South AlabamaFollow

Abstract

Purpose: Interest in pet therapy is increasing due to its potential to alleviate internal and external stress signs through the human-animal bond. This study investigates the effects of pet therapy compared to environmental and behavioral modifications on allied health students' stress levels and exam performance. Methods: We conducted an anonymized randomized intervention design with allied health students to compare perceived stress and test scores. Eighty-five students were randomly assigned to one of three intervention groups. We hypothesized that students who participated in pet therapy before their exam would report lower anxiety and achieve higher exam scores than those who received alternative interventions. Results: This study found that pet therapy, environmental modifications, and behavioral modifications significantly reduced reported stress levels among participants, with pet therapy showing the largest decrease in stress scores. Additionally, the analysis revealed a strong negative correlation between post-intervention stress levels and academic performance, suggesting that reducing stress improves exam scores and highlighting the importance of stress management in achieving academic success. Conclusions: This study offers valuable insight into stress management among allied health students and is one of the first to compare pet therapy, behavioral modifications, and environmental modifications in this population. Although occupational therapy students comprise the largest subgroup, the interventions were applied across multiple disciplines. The findings highlight the potential value of incorporating pet therapy into wellness programs, supporting both mental health and academic success through holistic, student-centered care.

Author Bio(s)

Catherine Brock is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Occupational Therapy at the University of South Alabama. She is deeply passionate about the therapeutic benefits of animal-assisted interventions and is a certified therapy animal team member with her Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. Together, they visit various hospitals and healthcare facilities, providing comfort and support to patients and residents. Dr. Brock is also actively involved in research aimed at improving patient and student outcomes through innovative occupational therapy practices, with a focus on the positive impact of pet therapy.

Acknowledgements

I would like to express my sincere gratitude to the students who dedicated their time and effort to participate in this research at the University of South Alabama. Their commitment and hard work were instrumental in the success of this project. Special thanks to Kyla Brown, Katy Crochet, Caroline Russell, Michelle Motes, Laura Kate Taranto, and Mary Stewart Shegon for their invaluable contributions and dedication throughout the research process. Their enthusiasm and perseverance have made a significant impact on the outcomes of this study.

Recommended Citation

Brock C. The Impact of Pet Therapy on Stress Reduction and Academic Performance Among Allied Health Students. The Internet Journal of Allied Health Sciences and Practice. 2025 Aug 08;23(4), Article 3.