Therapy

What is Pet Therapy?

‘Visiting Pets’ ‘Therapy Dogs’ ‘Therapy Pets’ are just some of the names given to describe programs in which animals help people just by visiting with them. As participation in such programs grows, so does the vocabulary describing different aspects of pet visiting. For example, the preferred use for the term “Animal Assisted Therapy” is for formal treatment programs, usually involving one particular animal and handler assigned to one client. The handler and health care provider consult on specific goals to be accomplished and plan how to accomplish those goals. The preferred use for more informal programs is “Animal Assisted Activities” but you will see a great variety of terms as groups struggle to find words that are descriptive & not confusing.

Why Take Animals Visiting In Health Care Facilities?

Visiting with animals can help; people feel less lonely, and relieve depression. Visits from dogs can provide a welcome change from routine or the renewal of old friendships. People become more active and responsive both during and after visiting with animals.

An animal visit can offer entertainment or a welcome distraction from pain and infirmity. People often talk to the dogs, and share with them their thoughts and feeling and memories. Animal visits provide something to look forward too. Stroking a dog or cat can reduce a person’s blood pressure. Petting encourages use of hands and arms, stretching and turning.

The pet makes it easier for two strangers to talk. It gives people a common interest and provides a focus for conversation. Many people in hospitals or group homes have had to give up pet ownership and they miss the casual acceptance a pet gives them. A dog pays little attention to age or physical ability, but accepts people as they are. The benefits continue even after the visit. The visit leaves behind memories not only of the visit, but also of past experiences. It offers something for people to share.