Risk Assessment Wizard

Create clear, professional risk assessments in minutes. List hazards, set measures and assign responsibilities, then download a clean PDF branded with your organisation.

Get Started

  • Create a Risk Assessment

Therapy Animal Visits Risk Assessment Template

Create a professional, comprehensive risk assessment for therapy animal visits in animal care settings. Tailor hazards and measures to your needs and download a professional PDF. Add your own branding.

Begin straight away; create a free account later if you want to save.

Preview of Therapy Animal Visits

What this covers.

This template focuses on typical risks and controls for therapy animal visits in animal care settings. You can add, remove or adapt items to match your context.

Potential benefits

  • Improves mood and emotional resilience through positive animal interactions.
  • Provides emotional support to individuals in hospitals, schools, and care facilities.
  • Supports mental health programs by promoting relaxation and companionship.
  • Boosts morale and creates a calming environment for individuals in stressful situations.
  • Encourages physical activity in rehabilitation patients through animal-assisted therapy.

Typical hazards & measures

  • Scratches from animals — Regularly trim and maintain the animal's nails to reduce the risk of scratches. Educate participants on appropriate ways to approach and touch animals to prevent accidental injuries.
  • Unexpected reactions to assistive devices — Expose therapy animals to mobility aids like wheelchairs, walkers, and canes before visits. Train them to remain calm and confident around these devices. Supervise all interactions closely.
  • Animal escape — Use appropriate leashes, harnesses, or carriers during transport and sessions. Secure all areas to prevent accidental escapes and conduct regular equipment checks.
  • Participant injuries from large animals — Use therapy animals of appropriate size and temperament for each setting. Train animals to remain calm in confined spaces. Ensure handlers monitor participant positioning and interactions closely.
  • Cultural sensitivities — Be aware of and respect cultural differences regarding animals. Provide alternative activities for participants who may be uncomfortable with animal interactions.

How to use this template

  1. Click Create Risk Assessment: Therapy Animal Visits to begin immediately.
  2. Review suggested hazards and measures, then tailor as needed.
  3. Download your PDF. Create a free account if you want to save.

FAQ

Do I need an account to start?

You can begin filling out your risk assessment straight away. Create a free account if you want to save your work.

Can I download a PDF?

Yes - download a clean, professional PDF at the end.

Can I edit a saved assessment?

Yes, personal and unlimited members can edit saved assessments from the account dashboard.