Benefits of Animal-Assisted Therapy
Certified therapy dog, Nalu, is waiting to start work!
Animal-assisted therapy (AAT) has gained popularity as an innovative and effective approach to enhancing physical, emotional, and mental well-being. This therapeutic technique involves interactions between clients and trained animals, typically dogs, cats, horses, or small animals like rabbits and guinea pigs.
I became interested in AAT during grad school while studying social work. While at the University of Denver, I pursued a certificate in animal-assisted social work. This journey allowed me to learn about the various benefits of AAT, work as a research assistant, and even certify my dog, Nalu.
Since 2020, Nalu has worked by my side as a therapy dog, gaining clients' trust and building long-lasting relationships. Here are some of the significant benefits of animal-assisted therapy:
Emotional and Psychological Benefits
Did you know that interacting with certain animals has been shown to lower cortisol levels, the hormone associated with stress? For instance, petting or playing with an animal can induce relaxation, helping to alleviate anxiety.
Therapy animals also provide companionship and unconditional love, which can comfort individuals with depression. The presence of an animal, such as a dog, can increase the release of serotonin and dopamine, neurotransmitters that contribute to feelings of happiness and well-being. For those with social anxieties or conditions such as autism, animal-assisted therapy can serve as a bridge to human interaction. Therapy animals can make clients feel more comfortable and open to engaging with others, more specifically their therapist.
Social, Behavioral, and Overall Benefits
Therapy dogs, for example, can help individuals develop a sense of empathy and trust. This is particularly useful in therapy for trauma survivors or those with behavioral issues, as animals offer non-judgmental support. The presence of an animal can motivate individuals to adopt more positive behaviors, such as being more patient, gentle, and responsible. This can be particularly beneficial for children and adolescents.
Physical and Cognitive Health Benefits
Studies have shown that spending time with animals can lead to lower blood pressure and improved heart rate. This can be particularly beneficial for individuals with cardiovascular conditions. Animal-assisted therapy often involves activities like walking, grooming, or playing with the animal, which encourage physical movement. This can be particularly helpful for patients undergoing rehabilitation or those with mobility issues.
Interacting with a therapy dog can help improve concentration and attention span, particularly in children with attention-deficit disorders or adults with cognitive impairments. Activities involving animals often require cognitive engagement, such as giving commands, playing games, or learning new tricks.
Takeaways
Animal-assisted therapy offers a wide range of benefits that contribute to the overall well-being of individuals. From reducing stress and anxiety to promoting physical activity and enhancing cognitive functions, the positive impacts of this therapeutic approach are well-documented.
