The Transformative Power of Therapy Animals

Therapy has become a lot more common among people of all ages and from all backgrounds. This has allowed people to learn about the variety of types of therapy, including pet-assisted therapy. Discover the transformative power of therapy animals and how pet-assisted therapy can help people dealing with many different conditions. 

What is Pet-Assisted Therapy?

Pet-assisted therapy refers to any type of therapy that integrates animals, such as horses or dogs, to help patients through their treatment. These animals are trained to provide comfort, support, and affection to patients as they are navigating sessions. Therapy animals can be used as treatment for both mental and physical health conditions, including as emotional support animals. Generally, therapy animals are trained to work with many different patients on their own, while emotional support animals are owned by individual people who need their regular support. The therapeutic benefits of pets make them great additions to a variety of therapeutic techniques, which allows patients to feel more comfortable while seeking treatment for whatever issues aill them. 

How Does it Work?

The links between human physical health, mental health, and animals contributes to the therapeutic benefits of pets. Research shows that people experience a boost in serotonin, oxytocin, and other hormones that are associated with positive feelings when they pet animals. This allows people to relax and feel more at ease, meaning something as simple as petting a dog during a therapy session can help a patient feel more comfortable opening up to their therapist. Animal-assisted interventions help reduce stress levels, creating a more calm environment that is better for therapy sessions. Therapy animals can also help patients with physical activity, whether they are dealing with physical conditions that limit their mobility or mental health concerns that make it difficult for them to exercise.      

When are Therapy Animals Recommended? 

Pet-assisted therapy can be recommended for patients of all ages dealing with a variety of mental and physical health concerns. Therapy animals may be recommended for patients who are dealing with mental health concerns such as Alzhemier’s disease, ADHD, anxiety, autism, depression, PTSD, stress, and schizophrenia. They can also be helpful for patients who are dealing with physical concerns such as cancer, cardiovascular disease, and chronic pain or illness.

What Should You Expect from Pet-Assisted Therapy?

If you think pet-assisted therapy may be a good fit for you, you can talk to your current doctor or therapist about options that are available. Therapy animals are often used in both individual and group therapy settings, so it’s important to learn about different options and determine what type of therapy interests you most.

If you’re considering getting an emotional support animal, you’ll want to make sure you are equipped to take proper care of it. You can always rely on the friendly veterinarians here at Arlington Animal Hospital to help you care for your pets. Contact our Arlington, VA veterinary clinic at (703) 920-5300 to learn more about our services or to schedule an appointment.