What Is Pet Therapy?
Pet therapy has become increasingly popular in recent years, offering emotional and physical healing through guided interactions with animals. This therapy typically involves a trained animal, such as a dog or cat, and its handler working alongside a person in need of support.
While dogs and cats are still the most common therapy animals, the range has expanded to include therapy rabbits, guinea pigs, miniature horses, and birds. The chosen animal depends on individual preferences and therapeutic goals.
Why Pet Therapy Matters More Today
Since the COVID-19 pandemic, mental health challenges like anxiety, depression, and loneliness have become more visible. As a result, animal-assisted therapy is now widely used not only in hospitals and care facilities but also in schools, universities, corporate offices, and community centres.
Some therapists and organisations even offered virtual pet therapy sessions during lockdowns, proving that animal interaction—whether in person or online—can bring comfort and calm.
Key Benefits of Animal-Assisted Therapy
Therapy animals can provide a range of health benefits. Spending time with these animals may:
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Lower blood pressure
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Improve cardiovascular health
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Release calming endorphins
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Ease pain and tension
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Reduce emotional stress and anxiety
Animal-based therapy sessions usually have clear goals, and patient progress is closely monitored.
Common Goals of Therapy with Animals
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Improve joint movement and motor skills
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Support independent or assisted physical activity
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Build self-confidence and emotional resilience
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Encourage verbal expression and social interaction
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Motivate participation in group or rehabilitation activities
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Increase willingness to stay active
Additional Advantages
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Reduces feelings of loneliness through companionship
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Helps prevent boredom, especially in long-term care settings
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Teaches children empathy and nurturing behaviours
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Strengthens relationships between patients and healthcare providers
Pet therapy also plays a growing role in helping stressed students during exam periods and supporting employees in high-pressure work environments.
Who Can Benefit from Therapy Animals?
Animal-assisted therapy can be life-changing for:
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Chemotherapy patients
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Residents in nursing homes or assisted living facilities
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Individuals with chronic heart disease
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Veterans living with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
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Children undergoing medical or dental procedures
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Stroke survivors and people in physical rehabilitation
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Individuals with anxiety, depression, or other mental health conditions
In clinical settings, having a therapy animal nearby can ease anxiety during medical treatments. In rehabilitation, pets can motivate patients to remain active and committed to their therapy routines. For people with sensory or communication difficulties, animals offer a unique way to build trust and improve interaction.
Final Thoughts
Pet therapy is no longer just a complementary treatment—it is now recognised as a valuable part of modern healthcare. Whether in hospitals, nursing homes, therapy centres, schools, workplaces, or even through virtual sessions, therapy animals continue to bring healing, joy, and meaningful support. PRIME
References: Healthline, Mayo Clinic, PAWS For People
