How pet therapy with fish works

Fish therapy is primarily based on observing the animals as they swim in an aquarium. Their slow, regular movements, colors, and the presence of water can promote relaxation, concentration, and stress reduction . This effect is part of the broader relationship between nature and psychophysical well-being.

It's important to make a distinction, however. In Italy, Animal-Assisted Interventions, commonly referred to as pet therapy, primarily involve dogs, horses, donkeys, cats, and rabbits. In the case of fish, therefore, in most situations, it involves aquarium observation as an activity to support their well-being , and not a therapy capable of replacing medical or psychological care.

How it works

Fish therapy has a unique feature: unlike therapy with dogs, cats, horses, or donkeys, it doesn't require physical contact with the animal . The relationship develops primarily through observation.

Sit in front of the aquarium and watch the fish swim, change direction, move among the plants, or approach the food. The regularity of these movements can help slow your thoughts and shift your attention from worries to what's happening in the tank.

Observation can last a few minutes or be part of a more structured activity. In some cases, the person can even participate in simple tasks, such as feeding, always respecting the animals' needs and the aquarium manager's instructions.

Where it is practiced

Aquariums can be found in private homes, waiting rooms, senior living facilities, and some healthcare or assistance settings . The observation of fish in places where people may experience tension or anticipation has been the subject of much research.

The mere presence of an aquarium, however, doesn't mean true pet therapy is taking place. Animal-Assisted Interventions (AAI) involve specific objectives and the involvement of qualified professionals. At home, however, an aquarium can simply be an opportunity to stop, observe, and find some tranquility, along with other natural remedies for stress.

Per chi è adatta

Fish watching can be especially enjoyable for those who need to slow down, focus, and relieve tension . One of the advantages is the lack of direct physical interaction: no petting, walking, or special skills in interacting with the animal are required.

For this reason, aquariums can also be used as a support activity for the elderly and people with cognitive difficulties . Some studies, for example, have analyzed the presence of aquariums in facilities that care for people with dementia, observing possible effects on attention and behavior during meals.

It can also be an interesting experience for children, as long as the fish aren't seen as mere decorative elements or toys. Observing them, learning to recognize the species, and understanding the needs of the aquatic ecosystem can foster attentiveness, patience, and a sense of responsibility . These aspects are also part of the more general benefits of a relationship with pets.

The advantages

The potential benefits of pet therapy with fish primarily concern relaxation and psychological well-being. Watching an aquarium can help you slow down, distract yourself from worries, and temporarily improve your mood.

A scientific study published in Environment and Behavior , conducted by researchers from the Universities of Plymouth and Exeter, along with the National Marine Aquarium, observed people's reactions to a large aquarium during different phases of restocking. As the presence of fish and other marine life increased, the researchers observed longer viewing times, a reduction in heart rate, and an improvement in perceived mood.

The results of scientific research must, however, be interpreted with caution. A systematic review published in PLOS One , which examined 19 studies on the interaction between people and fish in aquariums, found promising data regarding relaxation, anxiety, mood, and some physiological parameters , but also studies in which no significant effects emerged. Therefore, further research is needed to reach more robust conclusions.

Another line of research concerns people with dementia. In a study of 62 people with Alzheimer's disease , the introduction of aquariums into nursing homes was associated with increased food intake during meals. This is an interesting result, but it doesn't mean that aquariums can be considered a cure for the disease.

Contraindications

The first precaution is not to attribute unproven effects to the aquarium. Pet therapy with fish is not a substitute for medical, psychological, or rehabilitative therapies . It can be used alongside them within a professionally designed program, or simply as a relaxing activity.

And a fundamental principle of Non-Waste applies here too : the well-being of people cannot come at the expense of that of animals. The aquarium must be appropriate for the species housed, with the right space, temperature, lighting, filtration, and feeding . Fish are living beings, not decorative elements to be constantly disturbed to elicit a reaction.

Hygiene is also important. The water and objects in the tank can contain microorganisms, so it's important to wash your hands thoroughly after aquarium maintenance and wear gloves when necessary, especially if you have cuts or wounds. Those with compromised immune systems should avoid cleaning the tank themselves without first consulting a doctor.

Finally, in hospitals and healthcare facilities, the presence of an aquarium must be evaluated taking into account hygiene, patient characteristics, and facility protocols . The potential benefit of observation must never compromise either the safety of the people or the well-being of the fish.

Read also:

• Animals in the hospital: how and when they can enter
• Donkey-assisted healing: ideal for depressed seniors and hyperactive children
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