Health & Fitness
Alyssa Mandel on the Benefits of Pet Therapy
Alyssa Mandel gives her insight on how pets provide comfort and relaxation for us.
Did you know our furry friends can provide therapy for us? Pet therapy is a rapidly going trend, and we’ve seen a number of different animals provide comfort to humans. Dogs and cats are the most common therapy pets but, horses, guinea pigs, and other animals can qualify as well. Pet therapy is an interaction between a person and a trained animal (guided by a handler). This type of treatment helps those with a physical or mental illness cope or overcome their health problems. For example, therapy dogs and their handlers make visits to hospitals and interact with patients. After interacting patients feel happier and are less focused on their illness.
Benefits
There are numerous benefits to participating in this type of therapy. Fostering a bond between human and animal releases endorphins and has a calming effect. So there’s a reason you feel better after interacting with a pet! We’ve also seen service pets help reduce blood pressure, stress, and improve mental health. Physically this type of therapy can improve verbal communication, social skills, and motor skills. Benefits also include:
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- Increased self-esteem
- Improved social interactions
- Decreased loneliness
- Reduced anxiety
- Improved outlook on Life
Who can it Help?
Pet therapy can help almost anyone but is perfect for those facing health problems. Having a pet present at a medical procedure can reduce the anxiety of the patient undergoing the procedure. During rehabilitation, pets also help patients stay motivated and work towards their recovery goals. Pet therapy is beneficial to a few key groups of people as well:
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- Patients undergoing chemotherapy
- Veterans with PTSD
- Children undergoing procedures
- Long-term care facility residents
Recently, we’ve also seen therapy animals used in a non-medical setting as well. Handlers are taking their pets to college campuses and community events as a way for participants to de-stress. Therapy pets help people relax and forget any stressors that they may be facing.
Pet therapy is beneficial for individuals facing health problems and those looking to de-stress. Let’s face it; it’s hard not to smile after petting a soft cuddly dog or cat.
This article was originally published on AlyssaMandel.com
