Staff views on the involvement of animals in care home life: An exploratory study

Abstract

This qualitative study examined the views of one hundred and eight care staff working in fifteen care homes in the United Kingdom about the involvement of animals in the care practices of the home. The perceived benefits and difficulties of delivering person-centered and psychosocial care, including the involvement of animals were explored. The findings describe the main themes related to animal involvement elicited from staff. These include the benefits to residents' well-being and the varying challenges that visiting and residential animals pose. The implications for practice are discussed and the need for clearer information for care home teams is identified.