Animal-Supportive Homes

While the benefits of animal exposure therapy are well-documented, they are

In individual living, or overwhelming a person already operating at diminished capacity, leading to follow-on concerns over cleanliness, health, hygiene, and animal welfare.

Disrupting harmony and increasing staff workload in a group living scenario.

These disadvantages are greatly reduced by building an environment designed specifically around the needs of animals, both physical and psychological needs without detracting from the living environment for people.

This is no small feat, but it can be done and the well-documented benefits are well worth the effort, especially in cases of extreme trauma. (Newtown example)

Largest remaining barrier is people with severe allergies or extreme fear/anxiety, impulse control. This strategy should only be undertaken by organizations with multiple facilities or those whose primary focus will be animal exposure therapy.