Scientists believe that interacting with animals – dogs, cats, horses and other pets – reduces anxiety, strengthens the nervous system and boosts immunity. “Animals are open-minded about people,” notes Dr. Henry Feldman of the Department of Hospital Medicine at Harvard Medical School. – They just love and help us love back and feel more confident.”
What is pet therapy
Pet therapy (from pet, “pet, pet”) is the involvement of pets in the treatment and prevention of a variety of diseases, from cardiovascular disease to mental health disorders. An analysis of 49 pet therapy studies confirmed the positive emotional impact of animals on patients with:
- autism,
- emotional disturbances,
- post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD),
- schizophrenia,
- depression,
- addictions.
“Psychology pets” are called “emotional support animals.” They differ from helpers, such as guide dogs, in that they need almost no special training – a friendly attitude toward humans and an emotional connection between pet and owner is enough. Therefore, it is not necessary to buy a special animal – you can choose the one you like from the shelter. The restrictions for pet therapy are minimal: allergies to animals or fear of them.
How it works
Proponents of pet therapy believe that animals help stabilize emotions, become more relaxed and calm, develop trust in others and self-confidence, improve communication skills, self-regulation and socialization.
In addition, pets relieve loneliness, reduce irritability and anger, reduce symptoms of PTSD, help defeat insomnia, and increase levels of the joy hormones oxytocin and endorphins.
Dogs
The most popular therapists and companions among pets. They help to cope with depression, quickly calm down in a stressful situation, and feel secure. Dog owners find it easier to get acquainted with new people on walks and make friends – communication and friendship, according to scientists, make us happier. Emotional support can be provided by a dog of any breed and size that is friendly to people and knows basic commands.
Horses
Horses are almost as popular as dogs as therapists and in some cases are superior to other animals. Psychotherapy with them is used to treat addictions and help adults and children with mental disorders. Riding is an optional part of therapy. People can take care of horses to improve their well-being. Interacting with animals and their ability to recognize and mimic human emotions helps people cope with emotional distress and learn trust.
Cats
Cats are thought to be less capable of emotional support than dogs and horses. However, experts believe that this is not true. There is a practice of having cats in nursing homes, hospitals, schools, and open cat cafes. These animals have a calming effect on the psyche of people, help to forget about troubles and normalize sleep, because their presence creates a sense of security, and a cat’s purr relaxes and lulls. Studies show that petting a cat triggers the production of the hormone of joy, oxytocin. Pets are responsive, kind and sensitive to those who give them attention.
Rabbits
Sometimes you need a small, quiet and calm animal for therapy. In this case, experts recommend choosing a rabbit. These animals are easy to take care of, they are suitable for those who, for whatever reason, cannot get a dog or a cat at home. Petting rabbits helps to develop and maintain fine motor skills. The only essential condition is that the animal must be socialized and enjoy being stroked.
Reptiles
At first glance, reptiles are not associated with animals that help solve emotional problems. However, an experiment conducted in London showed that taking care of such a pet distracts people from difficulties and unpleasant experiences. This is because the care of the reptile requires increased attention and concentration. In addition, an unusual pet often increases self-esteem – the owner gets confidence that if he is capable of the complex care of a pet, he can succeed in any chosen field.
Birds
We are talking primarily about parrots – a high level of empathy and the ability to talk make them great companions. Experts suggest teaching parrots certain words and phrases that help in working through psychological difficulties. Parrots can help victims of violence and are better suited than other pets for treating PTSD. In the United States, Parrots For Patriots is created to help veterans of combat operations in Iraq, where any soldier who needs support can choose a bird and take care of it.
Cows
A new trend that has recently emerged in Europe and then in the United States is cow cuddling therapy. World fame for this type of therapy was brought by the American Suzanne Wollers. A year ago Suzanne and her husband, farmers from upstate New York, offered the sessions of “cow hugging” to all comers. The couple try to hold no more than one or two sessions a day so as not to tire out the animals. The benefit of such hugs is that the heart rate of cows is slower than that of humans. Hugging a cow gives people a relaxing and peaceful effect similar to that of yoga or meditation.