I'm a bit reluctant to toss this out there, but I could really use some insight. I have researched and found both quantitative and qualitative studies to support chemical and physical changes (increase in oxytocin, brain structural changes viewed by MRIs, for example) in both animals and humans during animal-assisted therapy and training, but I have yet to find any research that supports a possible relationship between HAB/AAT and cognition and memory.
My ultimate goal is to discover whether use of the HAB and AAT can positively increase brain plasticity, and use this form of teaching for elderly, and those who may have suffered brain injuries, to increase memory capabilities. I've included some of the references I've gathered, so far.
Insight, anyone? Thoughts?