Pet therapy, also known as animal-assisted therapy, is a type of therapy that involves animals as a form of treatment for individuals who are grieving or struggling with illness, mental health conditions or disabilities.
The practice has gained popularity in Australia in recent years, with more businesses, health care providers and individuals seeking the therapeutic benefits that animals can provide.
What is pet therapy?
Pet therapy involves interactions between trained animals and individuals to improve their physical, emotional, and social well-being. It is used to help individuals with a wide range of conditions, including grief, depression, anxiety, autism, dementia, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
The animals used in pet therapy can vary widely, but dogs and cats are the most commonly used due to their friendly and affectionate nature. Other animals that can be used in pet therapy include rabbits, guinea pigs, horses, and even dolphins.
The therapy sessions can take place in a variety of settings, including hospitals, aged care facilities, schools, mental health facilities, dementia wards, palliative care, disability services, health clinics, schools, correctional facilities and workplaces. During the sessions, the trained animals interact with the individuals, providing them with comfort, companionship, and a sense of emotional support.
How does pet therapy work?
Pet therapy works by stimulating the release of serotonin and oxytocin, hormones that are responsible for relaxation, reduced stress, social bonding and emotional connection. When individuals interact with animals, their bodies release these hormones which can help to reduce stress, anxiety, and depression.
In addition to the release of oxytocin and serotonin, pet therapy can also help to improve physical health. Studies have shown that pet therapy can help to lower blood pressure, reduce pain, and improve overall cardiovascular health.
Having a pet to take care of when grieving can give a sense of purpose, by taking care of someone other than yourself who is fully reliant on you, and is happy to have you around.
Other benefits of pet therapy include:
- Can help people feel more connected to nature.
- Can build a sense of motivation in the person that is driven by personal satisfaction, rather than external factors like rewards or punishment.
- Motivate people to attend and participate in therapy sessions.
- Help people balance their emotions.
- Drive social interactions.
Services available in Australia.
In Australia, pet therapy services are available in a variety of settings, including hospitals, nursing homes, and schools. Many organisations offer pet therapy programs, including Delta Society Australia, Paws for Kids, and Pets As Therapy.
Delta Society Australia is a non-profit organisation that provides pet therapy services to individuals with disabilities, mental health conditions, and other special needs. The organisation works with a wide range of animals, including dogs, cats, and rabbits.
Paws for Kids is another Australian organisation that provides pet therapy services to children with disabilities, autism, and other special needs. The organisation works with trained therapy dogs to help children improve their physical, emotional, and social well-being.
Pets As Therapy is a UK-based organisation that has expanded its services to Australia. The organisation provides pet therapy services to individuals in hospitals, nursing homes, and other care facilities. The therapy animals are carefully selected and trained to provide comfort and emotional support to individuals in need.
The popularity of pet therapy in Australia.
Pet therapy has gained popularity in Australia in recent years, with more and more individuals seeking the therapeutic benefits that animals can provide. According to a survey conducted by the Delta Society Australia, over 94% of respondents agreed that animals have a positive impact on their mental health.
The benefits of pet therapy are not limited to individuals with mental health conditions or disabilities. Many companies in Australia are now incorporating pet therapy into their workplace wellness programs to help reduce stress and improve employee well-being.
Final thoughts on pet therapy.
Pet therapy is a valuable and effective form of therapy that has gained popularity in Australia in recent years. With a wide range of benefits, including improved mental health, reduced stress, and improved physical health, pet therapy is becoming increasingly recognised as a valuable form of treatment.
Many of these services are looking for volunteers. While not all dogs and cats are suitable for pet therapy, it can be a rewarding experience by sharing the joy of your pet and giving back to your wider community.
If you are on your grief journey, consider volunteering your time at an animal shelter, or even fostering or adopting a pet. The positive effects of being around animals is astounding.
At Bare, we're always here for you. Head to our Grief Resources for videos and articles to support you during this time.
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