The Amazing Benefits Of Pet Therapy
Animals Can Aid In Pain Management
Further studies have also explored the effectiveness of canine visitation therapy (CVT) in pediatric pain management. The findings revealed a single visit from an animal significantly reduced a patient’s perceived pain and general discomfort after surgery, which suggests pet therapy may have a physical health benefit to it. The logic behind this idea is pets provide a distraction from pain, and are a comforting reminder of home for many of these children. The patients themselves reported the pets were a source of happiness, fun, pleasure, and entertainment, whereas the physical contact provided by the pets contributed to the reduction in perceived pain.
Similar findings have been discovered for hospitalized adults and the benefits of pet therapy. For instance, adult patients experienced a significant improvement in their energy level and respiratory rate, as well as a major reduction in pain and a negative state of mind when interacting with an animal. Specifically, these adult patients showed monumental improvements on several mood state subscales, which included their tension, anxiety, fatigue, and inertia levels, and pet therapy improved a patient’s mood and pain overall.
Next, find out the various types of pet therapy available to those who need this highly interacting and loving form of therapy.
Types Of Pet Therapy
Pet therapy can range from simple, casual visitations to formalized intervention programs, depending on the patient’s needs and goals. There are three different types of pet interactions including passive, low, and active interaction. Passive interaction is when the pet sits or sleeps with the patient, low interaction is when the pet performs occasional tricks for the patient, and active interactive is when the patient and pet engage in lively play or go for a walk. The type of interaction between the pet and patient can change from day-to-day based on the patient’s needs and desires, and the frequency and duration of visits can vary widely, again based on the patient and their family. Overall, pet therapy provides extraordinary benefits for child and adults patients alike, and it is a form of therapy that is highly adaptable to the various needs of the patient.
Keep reading to find out who benefits the most from pet therapy. Yes, it is at least mildly beneficial for everyone, but certain individuals can greatly benefit from some extra affection from a loving dog or cat.
