If you were to ask a pet parent how much it means to have their furry companion around, they would probably say, “more than a family member”. When owners are under the weather, having a pet makes them feel better and quickens their recovery.

Hospitals in many countries around the world make use of emotional support animals or therapy animals. But most have strict policies about pets visiting hospitals. 

In the UK and the USA, some hospitals might allow trained service animals (like guide dogs for people with disabilities) to visit patients. A few hospitals even have therapy dogs to assist patients. While animal-assisted therapy is catching up in India, animals are not allowed to visit their owners in hospitals.

Pets being allowed at hospitals would help owners, but it might also increase the risk of infection. Some patients may not be comfortable with animals, while others may be allergic to fur. Animals can indeed not be allowed around people with compromised immune systems.

Pets may be allowed to visit their owners upon the advice of their physician. If a patient is terminally ill or has been in the hospital for a while due to a long illness, meeting a four-legged friend can be beneficial. The doctor can ascertain if the benefits outweigh the risks and if the pet can be allowed to visit. 

However, if it compromises the patient’s health, the answer should be a strict no. When pets are allowed, they should be appropriately vaccinated, groomed, and held by a leash. Some hospitals in the USA that allow dogs don’t permit cats. This is because felines cannot be trained as well as dogs and are more likely to scratch or bite.

In short, it can be a good idea to allow owners of pets to have their pets brought in. But this should be allowed only in exceptional cases where the benefits outweigh the risk of infection posed by an animal. In case of short hospital stays, animal visits can be completely avoided. 

There should be strict regulations to allow only the animals that are properly immunised, groomed, and free of any disease themselves. These animals should also be kept away from other patients for their safety and comfort.

The Society of Healthcare Epidemiology of America has advisories on animal visitation in hospitals, which can be emulated by other countries mulling the idea.

For more information, talk to our experts NOW!

FAQs

1. Are dogs allowed in UK hospitals?

Dogs are usually not allowed to visit or accompany owners to hospitals in the UK. Hospitals may, however, permit trained service animals.

2. Are pets allowed in USA hospitals?

Most hospitals in the USA have therapy dogs for patients. A few hospitals allow pets but have strict policies. You would need permission to bring in an animal.

3. Why should pets be allowed in hospitals?

Pets can provide comfort and motivation to patients. They also improve their mental health by offering emotional support.

4. Can you take your pet to other countries?

Yes. You will be required to get a health certificate for your pet. It should be healthy, vaccinated, and parasite-free.

5. Why do hospitals use therapy dogs?

Therapy dogs can significantly improve the well-being of patients. They offer emotional support and comfort to patients.

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