The joy of coming home to a pet and the calmness of caring for a horse are examples of how animals can help humans feel good.

Animal-assisted intervention (AAI) is a term used to describe activities that bring people and animals together with the purpose of helping people feel better and learn more about themselves.

Journalist Madeleine Van Clieaf learns how dogs, horses, and even chickens are assisting people here in Ottawa. 

Credits

Produced by Emily Vaz, Madeleine Van Clieaf, and Valerie Patulot

Special thanks to Aubrey Fine, Fiona Kearney, and Elaine Waddington Lamont

Photos courtesy of Aubrey Fine and Elaine Waddington Lamont