Benefits of Pet Therapy
It's well-known (and scientifically proven) that interaction with a gentle, friendly pet has significant benefits.
Physical Health:- lowers blood pressure
- improves cardiovascular health
- releases endorphins (oxytocin) that have a calming effect
- diminishes overall physical pain
- the act of petting produces an automatic relaxation response, reducing the amount of medication some folks need
Mental Health:
- lifts spirits and lessens depression
- decreases feelings of isolation and alienation
- encourages communcation
- provides comfort
- increases socialization
- reduces boredom
- lowers anxiety
- helps children overcome speech and emotional disorders
- creates motivation for the client to recover faster
- reduces loneliness
Reading: (PAWS for Reading)- helps children focus better
- improves literacy skills
- provides non-stressful, non-judgmental environment
- increases self-confidence, reduces self-consciousness
In Physical Therapy- increases joint movement and improves recovery time
- maintains or increases motor skills
- provides motivation to move more, stretch farther, exercise longer
If you would like us to send you our 5 page annotated version of this list, please contact us at PAWSinfo@pawsforpeople.org.
