Dog therapy for children with zika syndrome: perceptions of mothers and professionals

Abstract

ABSTRACT Objective: To assess the perceptions of mothers and health professionals about the dog-assisted therapy for children with congenital Zika Virus syndrome. Method: Qualitative, descriptive-exploratory research, with six mothers of children with congenital Zika Virus syndrome and six health professionals. Data were obtained at a Brazilian Specialized rehabilitation center in Paraíba, through semi-structured interviews, between February and October 2019. The empirical material was subjected to Inductive Thematic Analysis and interpreted using the Bronfenbrenner’s Bioecological Theory. Results: Dog-Assisted Therapy allowed the enhancement of skills that were previously not performed by children, such as: spontaneous hand opening, head control, improved social interaction, reduction of seizure episodes and disruption of spasticity patterns. Final considerations: Dog-Assisted Therapy was perceived as qualified, humanized and satisfactory support for the evolution of the neuropsychomotor development of children with congenital Zika Virus syndrome.

Keywords

• Zika virus infection
• Child health
• Animal assisted therapy
• Child development
• Early intervention