The idea of someone waiting for you after you come back exhausted from work can just change your entire mood. If this someone is a furry pet then it just makes a lot more sense because these innocent animals are the most loyal companions anyone can have. They give without any expectation and help without any judgment. But here is the deal, these furry creatures can also help a human's mental health and can lead to one's overall betterment.?
For many with mental health disorders animals can be a boon. In fact, animals can be very helpful in improving one's mental health and there is a proper channel through which animals can provide a way to provide therapy as well. This is called animal-assisted therapy (AAT).?
Animal-assisted therapy (AAT) is a therapeutic approach that involves the use of animals as a part of a therapeutic treatment plan. It typically involves a trained therapist or counsellor working alongside a certified therapy animal, such as a dog, cat, horse, or even a smaller animal like a rabbit. The goal of animal-assisted therapy is to improve the emotional, mental, and physical well-being of individuals by incorporating interactions with animals into the therapeutic process.?
Dr Bhanu Dev Sharma, Co-CMO & Co-CCO at MaxPetZ has spoken about this form of therapy and shed some light on the same. A study titled "Paws for Thought: A Controlled Study Investigating the Benefits of Interacting with a House-Trained Dog on University Students' Mood and Anxiety" shows that spending time with therapy dogs reduces symptoms of depression andanxiety and also helps in the treatment of issues like post-traumatic stress disorders (PTSD). Infact, we¡¯ve found it also has a great role to play in the treatment of children on the autism spectrumor those with other developmental and communication disabilities."
"We've also seen this in ourown experience as vets. One of our groomers regularly takes her dog, Myra, to interact with kidswith special needs and the impact on their wellbeing is significant.However, the benefits of animal interactions are not just limited to pets. There¡¯s evidence to show thatinteractions with farm animals including cows, horses and even chickens can have a profoundimpact on people¡¯s mental health. In fact, there is also evidence for the positive impact ofemotional therapy involving marine life such as dolphins and aquarium fish."
As per?Connor K, Miller J. Animal-assisted therapy: an in-depth look, the discovery of Animal-assisted therapy was first discovered back in the late 1800s, when Florence Nightingale, considered the founder of modern nursing, made substantial discoveries regarding AAT. It was discovered that small pets were helping children and adults in psychiatric institutions to feel better mentally and emotionally. She also noticed that it was also helping with anxiety.??
The animal-assisted therapy is not about one size fits all. It has different variations wherein different kinds of animals or their counterparts can help with distinct emotional and mental problems. Here are a few different kinds described by Dr Bhanu:
This is often referred to as "dog therapy" involves interaction withtrained dogs for emotional support and assistance. Therapy dogs are commonly used toalleviate symptoms of depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
This is also known as cat therapy. Even though it is less common than canine therapy, it canhave a calming effect and reduce stress and anxiety. Cats are often used in healthcaresettings to provide comfort to patients.?
Pets can also help children with learning disabilities learn how to regulate stress andcalm themselves, making them better equipped to overcome the challenges of theirdisorder. Playing and exercising with a dog or cat can help a child with learningdisorders stay alert and attentive throughout the day. It can also be a great antidote tostress and frustration caused by the learning disability.
This involves interactions with horsesand is often used for individuals with mental health issues, developmental disorders, ortrauma. Activities may include riding, grooming, and caring for the horses, helping clientsdevelop emotional awareness and improving communication skills.?
Now that we are well aware of the fact that animal-assisted therapy is beneficial for the betterment of the overall health of a person, there is a proper reason why this form of therapy has been a success. According to Dr Bhanu Dev has shed some first-hand opinion as to why it works.?
"The concept of animal-assisted therapy is rooted in the emotional bond that develops betweenpeople and animals when they interact. Animal companionship is emotionally safe and non-judgemental, provides comfort and safety, and helps divert attention away from a stressfulsituation. Talk to anyone after interacting with an animal and they will tell you they feel happierand more peaceful. This happens because the simple act of petting an animal or cuddling with itcan help our brain release feel-good neurotransmitters. This is the reason that interacting withanimals helps people beat loneliness, boost social support, increase motivation, and even helpindividual empathy and self-esteem."
As per Dr Bhanu, there has been an increase in animal-assisted therapy and more people have been opting for it. Not just that, people in India are slowly realising and understanding how animals play a vital role in the betterment of the society and overall well-being of a person which includes emotional and mental growth.?