This study examined the impact of animal presence on perceptions of therapists and willingness to self-disclose in therapy. Participants (N = 85) viewed a video clip of a psychotherapist alone or in the presence of a dog and then completed questionnaires assessing their perceptions of the therapist, willingness to disclose and attitude toward animals. Results indicated that participants rated the psychotherapists more favourable on several interpersonal characteristics and were more willing to disclose when the animal was present. Refuting past critiques, the presence of an animal had a beneficial impact on perceptions and willingness to disclose regardless of an individual's overall attitude toward animals. These results demonstrate that the presence of a dog, and perhaps other animals, can enhance the way psychotherapists are perceived and may also have a role in strengthening the therapeutic alliance.