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Article History

First Online: 30 September 2020

Compliance with Ethical Standards

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: The authors declare that they have no conflicts of interest.

: Ethical incorporation of animals into therapy settings requires consideration of, and advocacy for, the animal’s needs and welfare. Animal wellbeing is at the core of the Green Chimneys mission and great lengths are taken so each animal on campus receives the utmost nutrition, housing, social grouping and veterinary care. Green Chimneys animals are not objects to be used, but individuals to interact with in a respectful manner. Animals are consistently assessed for physical and behavioral health and individualized care plans are in place. Interactions are carefully supervised to ensure safety of both people and animals. Green Chimneys follows all state and national laws pertaining to animal well-being, is subject to regular unannounced site inspections by outside authorities and is committed to exceeding basic standards as a “best practice” model program. Animal-assisted interventions as an adjunct to therapy for youth: Clinician perspectives.