It has been said many times that dogs are man’s best friend. If you’ve ever had the privilege of sharing your life and home with a dog, you know they are wonderful companions.
Therapy dogs, in particular, offer tremendous emotional support to their humans. Therapy dogs sometimes live right in a person’s home, but they can also visit a variety of environments such as nursing homes, hospitals and schools.
Here are just some of the many benefits of therapy dogs:
Improve Our Mental Health
Dogs have a very calming effect on us. In fact, many studies have found they can actually decrease your blood pressure. But in addition, they seem to be able to lessen the symptoms of depression and anxiety.
Help Children Who Have Been Abused
Children find it much easier to talk to animals than adult humans. This is especially true for children who have suffered some form of abuse. Many therapy dogs are used in child-abuse centers where they help children feel safe enough to express their emotions.
Helping with PTSD
Therapy dogs have been used to help war veterans who are experiencing Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).
Improved Physical Health
Sometimes people, especially seniors, need a reason to get up and go. A therapy dog is a great reason to take a walk around the block. This increase in activity can have a significant benefit on a person’s physical health.
True Companionship
So many in our communities are isolated and lonely. Therapy dogs can provide wonderful companionship. I have seen people go from sad to happy in less than a day when a dog suddenly came into their life!
If you are interested in getting a therapy dog for yourself or a loved one, you can do a search for therapy dog trainers in your local area.
SOURCES:
https://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/how-therapy-dogs-can-improve-well-being-0527137
https://www.verywellmind.com/therapy-dogs-benefits-2615438