Who We are
The National Association of Therapy Animal Organization is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization created to form a community of organizations that train therapy animals to provide animal therapy services in their neighborhoods.
We, members of NATAO, believe in the positive impact of trained therapy animals in the lives of people. We are dedicated to educating, promoting, and upholding the highest standards of excellence in therapy animal organizations.
What is a Therapy Animal?
A therapy animal is a specially trained animal that provides comfort, affection and support to people in a wide variety of settings, such as hospitals, nursing homes, schools, and disaster areas.
Not to be confused with service animals, therapy animals are trained to interact with many people to help improve their emotional and mental well-being. Service animals are trained to perform specific tasks for individuals with disabilities. Therapy animals can help reduce stress, anxiety, and depression, improve mood, and increase social interactions. Common therapy animals include dogs, cats, rabbits, horses, and even birds.
Our Work
Operational Excellence
Develop resilient and effective animal therapy organizations through education, a knowledge sharing repository, and accreditation. Obtain discounts and negotiated rates on equipment, supplies, software, and services.
Community and Collaboration
Provide an online community and in-person events for networking and collaboration. Create platforms to share insight, challenges, and successful strategies.
Advocacy and Awareness
Promote public awareness. Advocate for animal therapy and animal therapy organizations. Support animal therapy research and studies.