Can I bring a pet with me to help with my anxiety?

Animals are not usually allowed in appointments, with the exception of officially recognised schemes and assistance dogs. This includes:-

guide dogs for the blind, hearing dogs for the deaf, dogs for the disabled, animals which belong to the Pets as Therapy (PAT) scheme, Canine Concern Scotland Trust – incorporating Therapet. 

Why? There are lots of reasons, mainly because of infection control but also because we need to consider how other patients might react. Whilst your pet is a comfort to you, others may be frightened or have an allergy to animals.

NHS Guidelines say: “there may be some exceptional circumstances where it may be beneficial for a pet to be brought in to see an individual patient. Such requests must be discussed with the Infection Control Team first and consideration given to the safety and wellbeing of other patients.” If you feel you fall into this category, our advice would be to discuss this with your CAMHS clinician.

Remember, there are other things you can bring with you to help you with your anxiety. Anything that helps you to feel calm and comfortable: a toy, a teddy, a photo, a book or magazine.