Pets as Therapy

For so many years people have used pets as therapy. The earliest reports I found is the mid 1800s in Germany. Farm animals and domestic animals were being cared for by people diagnosed as mentally ill. Using pets as therapy continues today in many situations, including people having a wide range of mental illnesses as well as health issues. Pets are great for keeping people company and relieving stress. It is relaxing to pet an animal that is calm, or wants to run and play catch.

Something was brought to my attention today as I had a traumatic experience today. It was brought to my attention how much our family dog impacted my brother. Despite all of the things that has happened, when it came to our dog he always calmed down. I'm not saying she worked miracles, but I believed she helped him. She was just a dog wanting attention and love. This dog had unconditional love no matter what was said or happened, even hours prior.

I am aware that not everyone can have a dog because of the expense, inconvenience of the time they require. I would encourage any parents whom have children with a mental illness of any variety to find a way so their child can spend time with an animal. Weather you volunteer at an animal shelter, or offer to walk a neighbor's dog occasionally. Maybe even go to a dog park for the child to even be around dogs.