Dog-led program to support mental wellbeing of adults in custody
Official title: Animal-Assisted Intervention: An Effectiveness Study Using Qualitative and Quantitative Measures on Offenders With Mental Illnesses in Hong Kong
Run by The University of Hong Kong · NCT06968351 · Data updated 2026-11-12
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
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 156 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | The University of Hong Kong Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Hong Kong) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | June 2, 2025 |
| Main results expected | December 31, 2025 |
| Study ends | December 31, 2025 |
| Registry record updated | August 1, 2025 |
| Trial ID | NCT06968351 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a 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.
✕Probably 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.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
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.
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 gone: 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.
Who can join: the full rules
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 it's running
-
Hong Kong Correctional Services Department
Hong Kong, Hong Kong Recruiting
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Director
- Email: idpclab@hku.hk
- Phone: +852-39175889
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.