Petting-PUPS
There are many terms used to describe ways in which animals can help rehabilitate and heal persons with special needs. These include animal assisted activities (AAA) or animal-assisted therapy (AAT). Pets can help people with a variety of mental, emotional and physical disabilities. Pets can have positive effects on residents of long-term care facilities. Interest in surroundings, mental health, activity, social interaction and communication are often improved.
Many people find it easier to bond to an animal than to other people. The safety in this bonding can lead the way to the development of similar relationships with other people. Loving an animal is not threatening and can quickly heal any emotional scars on the human heart.
Pet therapy visitations can fulfill a very important need for the elderly. So many people have to part with their pets when they go into nursing homes and assisted living centers. Many of them become withdrawn and depressed. On many occasions, visits changed the lives and improved the happiness of the elderly in institutions. It gives them a point of communication, and it has been proved and well documented that physical contact with a pet is therapeutic. An inherent trait in humans is the need for attachment to others. Visiting teams provide that attachment. When a patient looks at a dog, strokes him and talks to him, the blood pressure goes down, temperature decreases and a sense of well-being increases.
Many people find it easier to bond to an animal than to other people. The safety in this bonding can lead the way to the development of similar relationships with other people. Loving an animal is not threatening and can quickly heal any emotional scars on the human heart.
Pet therapy visitations can fulfill a very important need for the elderly. So many people have to part with their pets when they go into nursing homes and assisted living centers. Many of them become withdrawn and depressed. On many occasions, visits changed the lives and improved the happiness of the elderly in institutions. It gives them a point of communication, and it has been proved and well documented that physical contact with a pet is therapeutic. An inherent trait in humans is the need for attachment to others. Visiting teams provide that attachment. When a patient looks at a dog, strokes him and talks to him, the blood pressure goes down, temperature decreases and a sense of well-being increases.