AAT Therapy Animal Selection 3

Question 1

Which population characteristic should most influence the species selected for an AAT program in a memory care facility?

Accepted Answer

Clients' history with animals and potential fear or allergy responses

Answer

Client histories, allergies, and prior animal relationships directly affect therapeutic benefit and safety in memory care populations.

Question 2

A guinea pig is used in AAT sessions with children with autism. What handling protocol is essential?

Accepted Answer

Ensure the guinea pig is handled only while seated to prevent drop injuries

Answer

Seated handling prevents accidental drops and reduces injury risk for both the animal and the child during unpredictable movements.

Question 3

Which factor is LEAST relevant when selecting a therapy horse for an equine-assisted therapy program?

Accepted Answer

The horse's breed registration papers

Answer

Breed registration has no bearing on temperament suitability; behavioral history and adaptability are the critical selection criteria.

Question 4

What does 'species-specific needs assessment' mean in the context of therapy animal selection?

Accepted Answer

Evaluating whether the therapy environment can meet the animal's biological and behavioral requirements

Answer

Each species has unique environmental, social, and behavioral needs that must be met to maintain welfare during therapy work.

Question 5

A therapy dog repeatedly seeks to end interactions by turning away and yawning during sessions. This MOST likely indicates:

Accepted Answer

The dog is displaying calming signals indicating stress

Answer

Yawning, turning away, and lip licking are recognized canine stress signals that indicate the animal needs relief from the interaction.

(AAT) Certified Animal-Assisted Therapy Practice Test