Researchers now say canine companionship is helping a specific set of patients succeed in their recovery. This particular study focuses on whether animal-assisted therapy would make for a more successful recovery after a stroke. The research found that patients who interacted with therapy animals showed greater engagement in their treatment increased physical activity, had longer mobility and lower stress levels than those with no animals participating in their rehab. "We already have a very active animal-assisted treatment program here at Mayo Clinic. Bauer says animal-assited therapy is likely to benefit other patients recovering from different medical conditions as well - mental and physical.