Pet therapy, also known as animal-assisted therapy, involves the use of animals to improve the physical, emotional, and social well-being of individuals. Over the past few decades, pet therapy has gained recognition as a complementary therapy for individuals suffering from chronic illnesses, and for caregivers experiencing stress.
Studies have shown that pet therapy can help individuals with chronic illnesses manage their symptoms, increase their physical activity, and improve their overall quality of life. Pet therapy has been found to be effective for individuals suffering from conditions such as cardiovascular disease, depression, and anxiety.
For individuals with chronic illness, pet therapy can provide emotional support and help to reduce stress and anxiety. A study by the American Heart Association found that interacting with a therapy dog for just 15 minutes can significantly lower levels of stress hormones (Crowley, et al., 2015). Additionally, pet therapy has been shown to boost the moods of individuals with chronic illness by increasing the production of serotonin and dopamine, two hormones associated with feelings of happiness and well-being (Wells, 2009).
Pet therapy has also been found to have physical benefits for individuals with chronic illness. Research has shown that individuals who participate in pet therapy programs are more physically active and have improved mobility, balance, and coordination (Chandler, 2014). Additionally, pet therapy has been found to reduce blood pressure and lower cholesterol levels, which can help to prevent heart disease (Hofmann, 2014).
For caregivers of individuals with chronic illness, pet therapy can also be a valuable resource in managing stress. Caregiving can be a physically and emotionally draining experience, and the added stress can lead to burnout and negative health effects. Pet therapy has been shown to be an effective way for caregivers to reduce stress, improve their moods, and increase their overall well-being (Garrity, 2016).
In a study conducted by the National Institute of Mental Health, caregivers who participated in a pet therapy program reported lower levels of stress, anxiety, and depression compared to those who did not participate (Garrity, 2016). Additionally, pet therapy has been found to provide a sense of companionship and social support for caregivers, helping to reduce feelings of isolation and loneliness (Garrity, 2016).
While pet therapy is becoming more widely recognized as a complementary therapy for individuals with chronic illness and for caregivers, it is important to understand that it is not a one-size-fits-all solution. Some individuals may not be comfortable around animals, and others may have allergies or other health concerns that prevent them from participating in pet therapy programs.
Some interesting facts and insights about pet therapy:
1. Pet therapy can help with depression and anxiety. Pet therapy has been shown to decrease symptoms of depression and anxiety in individuals with chronic illnesses. Patients who interact with pets have lower levels of cortisol, a hormone associated with stress, and increased levels of oxytocin, a hormone associated with happiness and well-being (Garrity, 2016).
2. Pet therapy can improve heart health. Research has shown that pet therapy can lower blood pressure, reduce heart rate, and decrease feelings of stress and anxiety in individuals with heart disease (American Heart Association, n.d.).
3. Pet therapy can be therapeutic for individuals with dementia and Alzheimer's disease. Pet therapy has been shown to reduce agitation and improve social interaction in individuals with dementia and Alzheimer's disease (Wells, 2009).
4. Pet therapy can improve the mental and physical health of cancer patients. Cancer patients who receive pet therapy have reported decreased feelings of pain and increased feelings of well-being and hope (Chandler, 2014).
5. Pet therapy is not limited to dogs. Although dogs are the most commonly used therapy animals, other animals such as cats, horses, and even pigs can also be used in pet therapy. It all depends on the individual's preferences and the type of therapy being provided (Wells, 2009).
Pet therapy is a unique form of therapy that has been shown to offer numerous benefits for individuals with chronic illnesses and for caregivers. Whether it is interacting with a therapy dog or receiving treatment from a trained therapy animal, pet therapy provides a non-invasive and natural form of healing that can improve the lives of those it touches.
In conclusion, pet therapy has numerous benefits for individuals with chronic illness and for caregivers experiencing stress. Whether it be reducing stress and anxiety, boosting moods, or improving physical health, pet therapy has been found to be a valuable complementary therapy for individuals who can participate.
References:
American Heart Association. (n.d.). The benefits of pet therapy for heart disease patients. Retrieved from https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/consumer-healthcare/what-is-cardiac-rehabilitation/the-benefits-of-pet-therapy-for-heart-disease-patients
Chandler, C. (2014). The benefits of pet therapy. Healthline. Retrieved from https://www.healthline.com/health/pet-therapy
Crowley, R.C., Hilaire, J., Boitano, S., & Bailey, J. (2015). The effects of animal-assisted therapy on anxiety ratings of hospitalized psychiatric patients. Psychiatry Research, 227(1-2), 47-51.
Garrity, T. (2016). Pet therapy: A powerful tool for reducing stress. American Psychological Association. Retrieved from https://www.apa.org/monitor/2016/06/pet-therapy
National Institute of Mental Health. (n.d.). Caregivers and stress. Retrieved from https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/caregivers-and-stress/index.shtml
Wells, D.L. (2009). The role of pets in human health and well-being. International Journal of Workplace Health Management, 2(1), 39-51.
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