AAT Ethical Guidelines & Professional Standards 3

Question 1

Which document outlines the rights of clients participating in AAT and the responsibilities of the practitioner before treatment begins?

Accepted Answer

The informed consent form

Answer

The session progress note

Answer

The animal health certificate

Answer

The facility liability waiver

Question 2

A practitioner trained in social work wants to incorporate AAT. What ethical step must they take first?

Accepted Answer

Obtain specialized training in animal-assisted therapy and ensure it falls within their professional scope

Answer

Purchase a therapy animal immediately

Answer

Assume their social work license covers all AAT activities

Answer

Conduct a trial session with a willing client before seeking training

Question 3

What is the ethical concern with a practitioner developing a personal friendship with a current AAT client?

Accepted Answer

It creates a dual relationship that can compromise therapeutic objectivity and client welfare

Answer

It increases therapeutic rapport and should be encouraged

Answer

It is acceptable as long as sessions remain professional

Answer

It is only a concern if the animal is also involved in the friendship

Question 4

How often should therapy animals receive veterinary health evaluations to meet ethical standards?

Accepted Answer

At least annually, or more frequently as recommended by a veterinarian

Answer

Only when the animal appears ill

Answer

Every five years for healthy adult animals

Answer

Before the first session only

Question 5

A practitioner suspects a colleague is conducting AAT sessions without proper credentials. What is the ethical response?

Accepted Answer

Address the concern through appropriate channels such as supervisors or credentialing bodies

Answer

Do nothing to avoid workplace conflict

Answer

Publicly report the colleague on social media

Answer

Take over the colleague's caseload immediately

Question 6

Which principle requires AAT practitioners to actively promote the well-being of clients beyond simply avoiding harm?

Accepted Answer

Beneficence

Answer

Non-maleficence

Answer

Justice

Answer

Fidelity

Question 7

A client with a severe dog phobia is referred for AAT. What is the ethically appropriate first step?

Accepted Answer

Conduct a thorough assessment and discuss the client's comfort level and consent before any animal interaction

Answer

Introduce the therapy dog immediately to begin desensitization

Answer

Decline the referral without further consideration

Answer

Use a different animal without discussing the dog phobia