Establishing a Cooperative Framework for Rehabilitation and Emotional Support Based on AAT
Signing of a Business Agreement
A 'Good Alliance' aimed at supporting rehabilitation through bonding with companion animals has begun in Busan.
The Department of Companion Animal Science at Silla University (President Heo Namsik) has signed a business agreement with the Busan Brain Lesion Welfare Center to establish a cooperative framework for Animal-Assisted Therapy (AAT).
From the left, Paek Ilkwon, Professor of Companion Animal Science at Silla University, and Eunju Lee, Director of Busan Brain Lesion Welfare Center. Provided by Silla University
On November 25, a signing ceremony was held in the auditorium on the first floor of the Busan Brain Lesion Welfare Center, attended by Paek Ilkwon, Professor at Silla University, Eunju Lee, Director of the Busan Brain Lesion Welfare Center, and key officials from both institutions.
The agreement aims to combine the university's educational and research resources with the welfare center's practical welfare expertise to promote the spread of an 'evidence-based therapy model' in the local community. This model is designed to help improve physical, cognitive, and emotional functions of people with disabilities in the region, including those with brain lesions.
In particular, the application of programs such as sensory integration training using therapy dogs, promotion of social interaction, and emotional stability support at the welfare center is drawing significant attention as it marks the first such initiative in Busan.
Through this agreement, the two institutions plan not only to dispatch professionals specializing in animal-assisted therapy but also to develop field practice and internship models for students majoring in the field at the welfare center. This will establish a practical, training-based educational model for nurturing professionals in animal-assisted therapy.
Going forward, both institutions will expand cooperation in various areas, including joint development of rehabilitation, therapy, and emotional support programs, operation of therapy dog teams, and emotional stability programs for the local community.
This agreement is expected to serve as a significant turning point in improving the quality of life for people with disabilities in the region and in spreading an inclusive welfare culture.
Eunju Lee, Director of the Busan Brain Lesion Welfare Center, commented on the agreement, saying, "Animal-assisted therapy is already recognized overseas as a highly effective, evidence-based intervention for enhancing emotional stability, sensory stimulation, and social interaction among people with disabilities. Through this collaboration, we expect that our center's users will benefit greatly from various activities with therapy dogs, helping them not only recover daily functions but also regain emotional stability and confidence."
Director Lee continued, "The animal-assisted service partnership model with Silla University is the first of its kind in the Busan area, and it will provide an important foundation for delivering safer and more professional animal-assisted services to people with disabilities. We will continue to expand new rehabilitation and emotional support services in the local community and strive to create an inclusive welfare environment."
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