Dog-led program to support mental wellbeing of adults in custody
Animal-Assisted Intervention: An Effectiveness Study Using Qualitative and Quantitative Measures on Offenders With Mental Illnesses in Hong Kong
This pilot will try brief dog-led sessions to see if they improve depression, anxiety, and PTSD symptoms for adults in Hong Kong correctional facilities.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 156 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | The University of Hong Kong Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Hong Kong) |
| Trial ID | NCT06968351 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This is a pilot interventional program that delivers brief animal-assisted sessions, primarily using dogs, to incarcerated adults in Hong Kong secured facilities. Participants who meet inclusion criteria will join structured sessions run with trained handlers to promote engagement and emotional support. The study will measure acceptability (attendance, satisfaction) and change in mental health symptoms using standard scales over the intervention period. The University of Hong Kong partners with the Hong Kong Correctional Services Department to implement and monitor the program under strict safety and eligibility rules.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are persons-in-custody aged 18 or older who understand Cantonese and do not have dog allergies, fears, or a history of aggression toward animals.
Not a fit: People with dog allergies or strong fear/dislike of dogs, a criminal history involving animals, neurodevelopmental disorders, active psychosis, mania, or active suicidality are unlikely to be eligible or benefit.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the program could reduce symptoms of depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress and support rehabilitation efforts among participants.
How similar studies have performed: Animal-assisted interventions have shown promising but mixed benefits for mental wellbeing in community and clinical settings, while rigorous evidence specifically in correctional facilities remains limited.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * persons-in-custody * aged 18 or older * understand Cantonese Exclusion Criteria: * an allergy, a fear, or a dislike toward dogs * a history of aggression toward animals * a criminal history involving animals * a history of neurodevelopmental disorders * active psychosis or mania * active suicidality
Where this trial is running
Hong Kong
- Hong Kong Correctional Services Department — Hong Kong, Hong Kong (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Director
- Email: idpclab@hku.hk
- Phone: +852-39175889
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.