Not Only Anxiety, Preliminary Data on New Clinical Applications of Anxiety Wrap

Abstract In humans, pressure vests have been shown to reduce sympathetic arousal and increase parasympathetic activity, leading to potential improvements. This suggests that pressure stimulation may induce calming states through limbic and hippocampal modulation. While pressure vests have been anecdotally used as supportive therapy for children with autistic disorders and dogs with anxiety, rigorous scientific evidence is lacking to support their efficacy in clinical management. In a preliminary clinical trial, we applied a pressure vest to several dogs hospitalized in the intensive care unit to manage anxiety. Some cases are here reported. While these preliminary results are promising, controlled, randomized clinical trials are needed to confirm the efficacy and safety of this therapy. Nevertheless, given the absence of established treatment protocols, exploring the potential benefits of pressure vests represents a promising avenue for future research in improving the experience of dogs with specific situational or generalized anxiety. Information © The Author 2025