Pet therapy helps people in so many different ways.
- Exercise long-term recall skills. Asking a person about the pets they have owned can trigger all kinds of happy memories. Talking about pets you’ve known helps develop your cognitive skills.
- Exercise short-term memory. Asking a person to describe a pet who just visited is a good workout for the short-term memory. A well-trained dog could take a series of commands from a patient — the pup will be happy with the attention and the patient will get a chance to bond with the dog.
- Develop speech and communication skills. Many people love to talk about their pets and hear about others’ pets. Talking about a pet in a group situation can strengthen communication skills, increase vocal clarity, and work on breath support.
- Simple gross motor skills — like throwing a ball or petting a dog or cat — can be useful for people in a physical or occupational therapy environment.
- Fine motor skills — like tying a ribbon on a pet or buckling a collar — can be useful for people in a physical or occupational therapy environment.
- Walking a dog can be a great source of gentle to moderate exercise. It can also be an opportunity to work on balance and coordination. Some patients may not be able to walk a dog alone, and may need a therapist for balance. Not all dogs are right for this sort of work, either! The dog must be well trained, gentle on the leash, and able to ignore tempting distractions that might make him bolt.
- Ease depression. People who are depressed or lonely may have an easier time bonding with a pet than with people. The unconditional love a pet provides can help ease anxiety and loneliness.
- Ease stress. Petting your dog or cat can help promote relaxation, lower stress levels, and lower blood pressure.
- Feel more confident and independent. Having a pet to take care of can give a person a sense of purpose. Having a pet for company can ease loneliness and anxiety at living alone.
- Learn to love and nurture. Contact with pets tends to develop nurturing behavior in people of all ages. Children who are exposed to pets and humane education tend to be more empathetic towards animals AND humans throughout life.