396 - Parental Perceptions of Therapy Dogs in Pediatric Dentistry

Abstract:

Purpose:
The purpose of this study is to evaluate parental perceptions, willingness, and concerns regarding the use of trained therapy dogs for anxiety relief and behavior management in pediatric dental settings. Understanding parental acceptance is critical to informing future implementation of animal-assisted interventions as adjunctive, non-pharmacologic behavior guidance strategies.

Methods:
This descriptive, cross-sectional survey study will include parents of children aged 6–12 years receiving care at a university-based pediatric dental clinic. Eligible children are classified as American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) I or II. Parents will complete a one-time, anonymous questionnaire during or immediately following their child’s dental appointment. Survey items assess child dental anxiety, parental willingness to accept a therapy dog during specific dental procedures, perceived benefits, and concerns such as safety, hygiene, and allergies. Demographic variables will be collected to explore differences in perceptions across subgroups. Descriptive statistics will be used to summarize responses.

Results:
Data collection is ongoing. Results will describe overall parental willingness to accept therapy dogs in pediatric dental settings, identify clinical scenarios with higher or lower acceptance, and characterize common parental concerns. Associations between willingness and child anxiety levels, as well as demographic variables, will be explored using descriptive and comparative analyses.

Conclusions:
This study will provide insight into parental perspectives on therapy dog use in pediatric dentistry and help identify factors influencing acceptance. Findings may inform the development of future animal-assisted interventions and guide policies aimed at enhancing patient-centered anxiety management strategies in pediatric dental care.

Identify Supporting Agency and Grant Number: Research supported by University of California, Los Angeles.