Who let the dog in?

Animals, especially dogs, are well known to support patients. It is particularly true with sensory impairments (hearing or visual loss) and mental health conditions (autistic spectrum disorder, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, anxiety, disordered behaviours). They can help patients cope better with the treatment. Although pharmacological approaches can be used to reduce anxiety, paradoxical reactions have been described, and alternative approaches, if available and practical, should be considered..