Animal-assisted therapy (AAT) utilizes animals, such as dogs and cats, in a therapeutic way to aid in the recovery of patients, for both physical and emotional needs. The assistance of animals has gained popularity in outpatient, acute care, and extended care facilities. Animal-assisted therapy has been used for many years in treatment plans to improve increased attention, mobility, communication, mood, and other positive health benefits. This type of therapy has also proven to show positive improvements in autism-spectrum symptoms, medical difficulties, behavioral problems, stress levels, and mental health.

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This type of therapy has been used at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, where they had puppies in the library. Puppies have been brought during stressful times, like final exam week, to provide comfort and love during difficult situations. Bringing in therapy puppies gives students an opportunity to feel happiness in that moment. Communicating with therapy dogs have shown to reduce blood pressure and aid in pain management. Many universities have started incorporating animal-assisted therapy to give students a break.