The Role of Animals in Healing

Animals, including dogs, cats, horses, monkeys and more, can help people heal in a number of different ways.  Animal Assisted Therapy can help people regain strength, skills and well being.  Informal animal programs like animal “meet and greet” visits bring happiness, stress relief and even pain relief to the people who need it most.

ANIMAL ASSISTED THERAPY

Physical Benefits

• Lowers blood pressure.
• Improves cardiovascular health.
• Releases endorphins that have a calming effect.
• Diminishes overall physical pain.

Emotional Benefits

• Lifts spirits and decreases depression.
• Decreases feelings of isolation and alienation.
• Encourages communication.
• Provides comfort.
• Increases socialization.
• Reduces boredom and loneliness.
• Lowers anxiety.
• Creates motivation for the client to recover faster.

STAYING SAFE WITH ANIMALS

• Residents and staff must be screened so anyone who is allergic to pets can be identified and steps can be taken to prevent contact.
• Any common areas where animals have visited should be cleaned and vacuumed immediately to remove any dander or saliva that could come in contact with those who are allergic.
• Tracheostomies must be covered with a cap, ventilator, oxygen source, or other covering.
• Wounds or burns must be covered during visits.
• Animals should not be left alone with clients.  A trained handler  or caregiver must be present at all times.

GET MORE INFORMATION

Pet Partners (www.petpartners.org)

875 124th Ave NE #101, Bellevue, WA 98005

Phone: (425) 679-5500

To find volunteer groups that make home or facility visits in your area, contact your local SPCA or a trusted veterinarian in your town.

You can also visit an organization called Dog Play that keeps a list of groups in each state.  Go to: www.dogplay.com/Activities/Therapy/t_groups.html and click on your state for local resources in your area.