Welcome to the Introductory Course in Animal-Assisted Interventions, a unique opportunity to begin exploring, from an unconventional perspective, the fascinating world of human-animal interaction. This course provides an introduction and overview of the theories, practices, and applications of animal-assisted interventions, a rapidly growing field that combines the disciplines of therapy, education, and recreational activities with the presence and interaction of animals.

Throughout this learning journey, we will delve into the crucial role that animals can play in enhancing the physical, emotional, and psychological well-being of individuals. Our goal will be to provide you with insights to develop a deep understanding of the various modes of animal-assisted intervention and their applications in different contexts.

The course

The introductory course provides basic knowledge on Animal-Assisted Interventions and the human-animal relationship, ethical aspects, national regulations, and the contents of the Guidelines. It also allows for a deeper understanding of the team’s role, the responsibilities of various professional figures and operators, and to showcase some AAI experiences.

This course is common and mandatory for all figures operating in AAIs and is necessary to access all the training paths required to operate within Animal-Assisted Interventions.

For the Activity Manager of AAI, the training path can be completed by passing only the introductory course.

Entry requirements

Fulfillment of the right and duty to education and training. Participation of 20 recipients per edition is planned. Selection will only be carried out if the number of candidates meeting the requirements exceeds the available slots. In such cases, priority will be given based on the order of application.

Contents and Program

Foundations and characteristics of the human-animal relationship
History and presentation of AAI (Animal-Assisted Interventions)
AAA, EAA, and TAA definitions
“Regulatory framework and guidelines and animal welfare protection
Roles and responsibilities of the involved figures
Areas of work: users and operational realities
AAI experiences

Certificate issued

At the end of the course and upon passing the learning assessment, a certificate of attendance is issued. To be eligible for the final assessment, it is necessary to have attended at least 90% of the scheduled hours. The propaedeutic course is required to access all the training courses provided for working in AAI.