Meridian Harmonics - Mark Tryling

Notebook

Pet Therapy

Boo

What Is Pet Therapy

Pet Therapy is a program in which animals help people, just by visiting with them, to help improve the person(s) quality of life. The animals are trained to brighten the lives of people that are confined and/or sick. Visiting dogs must be social, polite, friendly, and interact well with people, both adults and children.

How Does Pet Therapy Work?

There is something magical between animals and people! Animals let us feel that we are great just the way we are. That brings out our nurturing instincts, and makes us feel needed, worthwhile, and special. Animals don’t have mood swings or meltdowns. They are loyal and lovable; and even if we are irritable, they adore us unconditionally. The animals just want to give love!!

Boo and Matthew

What Can I Expect?

This is Boo! Boo is taken to the patient and the interaction begins. Patients, who haven’t smiled in weeks, smile and light up. Some even shed “tears of joy”. Stroking a dog can reduce a person’s blood pressure and stress. Petting encourages use of hands and arms, stretching and toning muscles. Tests show that within minutes of petting a dog, humans experience massive release of such beneficial hormones as prolactin, oxytocin, and phenylothylamine. A UCLA study found that interaction with dogs reduced the need for medical care for stress-induced aches and pains.

Research has shown that pets can:

    Reduce stress. Relaxation level was measured by blood pressure, muscle tension, and behavior.
    Boost people’s moods and enhance their social interaction.
    Require less medical care.

Among Seniors pet therapy:

    Diminishes emotional and physical pain
    Reduces boredom and anxiety
    Makes people happy
    Allows them to love and be loved

Among children pet therapy teaches:

    Gentleness
    Caring
    Responsibility
    Allows them to love and be loved

Is Pet Therapy Safe?

Pet Therapy originated back in the 1940’s. The dogs are carefully screened and dogs, as well as, the handler are professionally trained, tested, and certified to participate in therapy programs. A polite dog does not touch a person unless invited.

All information on this site is for informational purposes and should not be considered as recommendations or
medical advice. Consult your physician before beginning any new health, exercise, or nutritional program.