AAT Client and Animal Safety 2

Question 1

A therapy dog shows whale eye (visible sclera) and a stiff body while a client reaches toward it. What is the MOST appropriate immediate action?

Accepted Answer

Redirect the client and create distance between them and the dog

Answer

Whale eye and stiff body are stress signals indicating the animal may bite; immediate separation prevents injury.

Question 2

Which zoonotic disease is of greatest concern when a therapy animal has an open wound that comes into contact with an immunocompromised client?

Accepted Answer

Capnocytophaga canimorsus infection

Answer

Capnocytophaga canimorsus, found in dog saliva and wounds, poses severe sepsis risk for immunocompromised individuals.

Question 3

Before an AAT session in a hospital, a handler discovers the therapy animal has loose stools that morning. The BEST course of action is:

Accepted Answer

Cancel the visit and consult a veterinarian

Answer

Gastrointestinal symptoms may indicate infectious illness, and visiting with a potentially ill animal risks spreading pathogens to vulnerable clients.

Question 4

A client with dementia suddenly grabs a therapy cat tightly around the neck. The handler should FIRST:

Accepted Answer

Calmly redirect the client's hands while gently removing the cat

Answer

A calm, gentle physical redirect protects both the animal and the client without causing additional distress.

Question 5

What minimum health documentation should a therapy animal have updated annually according to standard AAT guidelines?

Accepted Answer

Rabies vaccination and a veterinary health certificate

Answer

Annual rabies vaccination and a current veterinary health certificate are the baseline documentation requirements for therapy animal visits.

(AAT) Certified Animal-Assisted Therapy Practice Test

(AAT) Certified Animal-Assisted Therapy Practice Test

AAT Client and Animal Safety 2