Therapeutic Advantages to Pets
Dogs In Therapy
I'm sure that most people have heard that animals have therapeutic effects on people. One child therapist was having an especially hard time getting a girl suffering from extreme case of PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder) to open up to her. The therapist had an especially sensitive dog who always seemed to be in tune with children, so one day the psychiatrist brought her dog with her to a group therapy session. All of the children in the group immediately flocked towards the dog, except for the one girl, who sat by herself in a corner. The dog carefully detached himself from the rest of the children and lay down next to the little girl with his head in her lap. Sensing progress, the therapist called the rest of the children away and got them involved with an activity while she kept an eye on the girl and the dog. Soon the therapist saw the little girl petting the dog and heard her talking to him. The little girl still refused to talk directly with the therapist, but she allowed her to listen to her talk to the dog. The little girl would tell the dog all of her problems and what she was afraid of, and the therapist would pretend to talk to the dog as she counseled the little girl. Soon, the little girl began talking to the therapist, and was on the road to recovery.
Mental Health
It has been found that cat owners have better psychological health than non-owners (Straede & Gates, 1993), and studies show that depression levels of people in nursing homes get better after obtaining pets. By breaking the "routine" of days and providing companionship, just having a pet around can dramatically lift spirits.
When older people have pets, it's been found that they feel more "useful", since although all of their children are grown and don't need them as much anymore, they still have someone relying on them. Especially when a lifelong companion or spouse has recently been lost, it has been helpful to get a pet to ease the loneliness.
Enhanced Immune Functioning & Other Health Related Facts
Research indicates that pets can actually enhance immune functioning, most likely due to decreased levels of stress and increased levels of self-confidence and self-esteem. They provide us with a source of affection, support, and acceptance and enable us to feel needed and valued. Petting animals has even been shown to lower blood pressure.
Online Resources for Pet Assisted Therapies
Here are some sites to visit if you're interested in learning more about pet assisted therapy:
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