Benefits of animal-assisted services on the quality of life of children diagnosed with cancer: A bibliometric and citation network analysis

Background: Animal-assisted services (AAS) have emerged as a promising approach to complementing the care of pediatric cancer patients and improving their physical and psychosocial well-being. This approach is based on the therapeutic use of the human-animal bond. This study analyzed trends and changes in research examining the impact of AAS on the quality of life of children with cancer. Methodology: We conducted a bibliometric analysis of scientific output and a citation network analysis using the Bibliometrix and Tree of Science platforms. Results: Our findings underscore the emotional and physical advantages of AAS, such as alleviating symptoms of anxiety, pain, and depression, facilitating hospital adaptation, and promoting socialization among children. Three clusters reflecting research trends in canine cancer, emerging cancer therapies, and AAS in pediatric oncology were identified. The latter is the focus of this study. Conclusions: We discuss the gaps in protocol standardization, limited hospital implementation, Conclusions. and lack of conclusive evidence in some studies. Overall, the study concludes that AAS is a complementary alternative for comprehensive psychosocial care in pediatric oncology, though more research is needed for its effective application.