There’s a reason why we love our pets so much. Anyone who has shared their life with a furry or feathered friend knows how much joy they bring to their lives. Studies show that spending time with animals can actually help us feel better, calmer, less stressed, and even have lower blood pressure.
When the world felt smaller during the pandemic, many people found comfort in bringing home a new pet. It’s amazing how much closer humans and animals are becoming.
These days, pet-friendly mental health care is becoming increasingly popular among doctors and patients. They use the human-animal bond in animal-assisted therapy to improve physical, mental, and emotional health.
How Pets Can Help?
It might sound like something out of a feel-good movie, but there’s actual science behind the idea that interacting with animals can benefit our mental health. When we interact with pets, our bodies release oxytocin, which is known as the love hormone. This chemical can help reduce stress, anxiety, and even depression.
There are many different types of pet therapy. Some allow you to bring animals into hospitals, nursing homes, or schools. Others develop one-on-one sessions with a therapist.
Here’s how the therapy works:
- Your therapist and you will develop clear therapeutic goals. It could be reducing anxiety, depression, or stress.
- The therapy animal will be introduced to you in a controlled setting.
- You will engage in activities with the animal, such as petting, walking, or playing.
- Your therapist will include the animal in your therapy sessions. They will use it to clear out communication, build trust, and develop coping skills in you.
- The therapist will regularly assess your progress and adjust the therapy plan as needed.
How Pet Therapy Benefits?
Pet therapy is a structured approach that involves bringing animals into a therapeutic setting. The animals can be dogs, cats, rabbits, or birds; the choice depends on the patient. They are specially trained to provide comfort and support.
Here are some of the many benefits pet therapy has:
1. Pets Affect You Physiologically
Studies have shown that interacting with pets can lower blood pressure, heart rate, and cortisol levels. Peting a furry friend can trigger oxytocin, which promotes relaxation and reduces anxiety.
2. They Provide Emotional Support
Pets provide a safe space for you to express emotions. Caring for a pet creates purpose and responsibility in your life, which eventually boosts self-esteem and motivation. The unconditional love and acceptance from a therapy animal can be comforting for those struggling with loneliness, depression, or social isolation.
3. They Improve Cognitive Functions
Pet therapy can improve cognitive functions in patients with dementia or Alzheimer’s disease. Interacting with animals stimulates memories, encourages verbal communication, and increases focus. For children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), therapy animals can provide a calming presence and help them develop social skills.
4. They Can Motivate Patients to Participate in Physical Therapy
The playful nature of animals can make exercise more engaging for children and adults. Interaction with pets can improve motor skills and coordination for people with physical limitations.
Who Can Benefit from Pet Therapy?
Pet therapy is beneficial for many people, including:
- Children with autism spectrum disorder
- Adults with mental health conditions
- Seniors struggling with loneliness
- Those with chronic health conditions
Is Pet Therapy Right for You?
In many cases, pet therapy can be beneficial. But it’s also important to note that this is not a magic cure. It’s one part of mental health care. Although it can be very effective for many people, it’s not a replacement for professional help.
You must consult a professional to confirm whether pet therapy is right for you. If your therapist affirms that it can benefit your condition, you can include it in your treatment plan.
Look for a reputable organization that provides pet-assisted therapy services. Be sure they have certified animal handlers and animals trained for therapeutic interactions.
Closing Thoughts
Pet therapy is becoming popular for a reason. It’s been showing a lot of potential in helping people with different health conditions, like dementia, PTSD, or autism.
If you are struggling with a mental health condition, pet therapy can be a great addition to your therapy plan. However, make sure you have professional support before you make a final decision.