Abstract

• There is mounting evidence to suggest that those who keep pets are likely to benefit from various improvements in health. • Despite founders of nursing such as Florence Nightingale advocating the importance of animals within the care environment, their integration into hospitals and other health care settings has been slow. • The literature on animal-induced health benefits is reviewed and the conclusion is drawn that the potential benefits of pet therapy are considerable. • It is suggested that nurses can assume an active role in advocating ward pet or pet-visiting schemes.