The Community of Madrid implements a pioneering therapeutic programme with dogs at the Doctor Rodríguez Lafora Hospital. The initiative aims to improve the emotional well-being of patients with severe mental disorders.
A new therapeutic approach has arrived in Madrid. The Community of Madrid has become the first region in the country to launch a programme that uses dogs as part of therapy for adults with severe mental disorders. This innovative Animal-Assisted Intervention (IAA) Workshop takes place at the public Doctor Rodríguez Lafora Hospital, located in Fuencarral-El Pardo, and has involved 20 patients admitted to the Extended Psychiatric Care Unit.
The main objective of the programme is to improve emotional health, encourage social interaction, and strengthen bonds among participants through activities specifically designed for this type of intervention. Initial results have been promising, according to data obtained from the WHO-5 questionnaire, which measures subjective mental well-being.
Evaluations show a positive evolution during the sessions. In the first session, the average score increased from 18.3 to 19.4 points, while in the third session there were hardly any significant changes, rising slightly from 21.3 to 21.5. However, the most notable change occurred in the sixth and final session evaluated: the average score rose from 18.6 to 24.3, representing an increase of 31%. This improvement reflects not only a quantitative advance but also a widespread acceptance of the project by the patients.
Participants have highlighted several positive aspects of the programme. Direct contact with the dogs and the activities carried out alongside them were particularly valued. Many expressed their desire for this initiative to be repeated or continued periodically. This feedback underscores not only the positive impact on their emotional well-being but also the perceived need for patients to have such interventions.
The IAA Workshop is part of the comprehensive model promoted by the Doctor Rodríguez Lafora Hospital since 2025. This model is oriented towards more humanised care focused on the individual needs of each patient. Furthermore, it is expected to continue evaluating the results to determine whether this type of therapy should be implemented regularly.
As this pioneering initiative progresses, it is clear that there is a growing interest in integrating alternative and complementary methods within the psychiatric field. The accumulated experience could lay the groundwork for future similar programmes not only in Madrid but also in other regions of the country.
For those interested in learning more about this programme or participating in future editions, it is recommended to keep an eye on the official communications from the Doctor Rodríguez Lafora Hospital.
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