Boris Levinson was the first professionally trained clinician to formally introduce and document the way that companion animals could hasten the development of a rapport between therapist and patient, thereby increasing the likelihood of patient motivation.

The original edition of this fascinating book was the first work to document "pet-oriented psychotherapy." That text is reproduced here in its original form; furthermore, in order to update and revise the text, footnotes have been added to identify and highlight research and practices which have occurred since the book was first published in 1969. Also, a list of resources now appears in the appendix.

This classic work has universal appeal, from human service practitioners, health and mental health practitioners, to educators in social work, psychology, nursing, veterinary medicine and counseling.