Is there a certain name for when animals help the sick and the lonely?

Question

Is there a certain name for when animals help the sick and the lonely?

Answer 1

Animal thearpy. Its brill. My mum has just passed away and she was in a hospis for months, they used to bring dogs and cats in for the sick people to stroke and cuddle as it has a carming affect.  

Answer 2

The oncologist I work for has three pets (two dogs and a cat).  They were trained as "therapy dogs" and a "therapy cat."  "Service" animals are trained to help their owners with activities of daily living, but "therapy" animals are trained to give love and companionship to sick and lonely people (but they don't help their owners with chores or activities).

Answer 3

Service pets.