What is the role of pet therapy in health and wellbeing?
We welcome you to join us in our fascinating discussion about pet therapy, and how it contributes to your health and wellbeing. This discussion will explore the benefits of pet therapy and its unique nature. You can expect to learn valuable information backed up by studies and research that highlights the important role pets have in improving health.
Pet Therapy: It's Important
Animal-Assisted Therapy, or pet therapy as it is also called, plays an important role in improving the mental, physical and emotional well-being. Human-animal interaction has therapeutic effects, which often result in improved moods, lower stress levels and better cardiovascular health.
Journal of Evidence-Based Complementary & Alternate Medicine published a study that highlights the benefits of pet therapy for patients with psychological disorders like depression or anxiety. The American Heart Association also reported that dog owners are at a lower risk of cardiovascular disease. AAT, however, should not be considered a stand-alone treatment, but rather as a part of an overall plan.
Get Started With Pet Therapy
It's important to know the level of commitment required if you plan on using pet therapy. Pets must be calm and patient in a variety of environments. Pet Partners, for example, offers training programs and certifications to both therapy animals and handlers.
According to research , the kind of pet you have can make a big difference. Anthrozoos, for example, published a study that found interaction with dogs to be more effective than other animals in decreasing stress. The right pet is essential to the success of a pet therapy program.
Pet Therapy: Examples that Contribute to Well-Being and Health
- Research has shown that pet interaction can reduce stress hormones.
- Petting an animal releases endorphins that can improve your mood.
- Socialization: Animals are social stimulants that can encourage interaction between individuals.
- Pet therapy can reduce pain in patients undergoing physical rehabilitation or long-term care.
- Walking with your dog regularly can have a positive impact on cardiovascular health.
- Self-esteem Improved: Caring for a pet is a great way to instill responsibility in young children, and can boost their self-esteem.
- Playing and training with your pet can stimulate the mind, especially for seniors.
- Pet ownership is linked to lower Blood Pressure.
- Pets can help you cope with stress and trauma better.
- Dogs in particular require regular physical activity, which encourages their owners to live a healthier lifestyle.
More Tips on Successful Pet Therapy
Pet therapy has many benefits, but not all pets or individuals are suitable for it. Verify that the pet you choose has received proper training and certification. Keep in mind, too, that the use of pets as therapy is meant to complement, and not replace, other types of treatment.
Incorporating pet therapy in a wellness program is also important when considering hygiene and allergies. Both the animal and the person receiving the therapy must be clean and consider any allergic reactions.
Conclusion
Pet therapy is a great way to promote health and wellbeing. This unique therapy has many benefits, including a reduction in stress and improved mood as well as a promotion of socialization and exercise. It's crucial to ensure that pet therapy is approached with the correct understanding and expectations to get the maximum benefit for both humans and animals.
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