You may have heard about the amazing effects therapy dogs can have in the classroom: they can lower stress levels among students, aid in reading instruction, and even improve test results. You might also witness therapy dogs and their handlers volunteering in settings including care facilities, hospitals, and schools.
Therapy dogs operate for a specific goal rather than a specific human, which sets them apart from other working canines. A therapy dog receives specialized training to visit various locations such as schools, nursing homes, retirement communities, and hospitals.
They can also provide consolation and support to victims of trauma or abuse when testifying in court. Rehabilitation from addiction may also benefit from therapy dogs. Since they show unconditional affection to needy individuals, they are highly trained to deal with people in crises. Here are some reasons to consider therapy dog training for your furry friend:
Therapy dogs give a routine.
People going through emotional problems benefit from a therapy dog’s routine. Food, walks, and grooming are necessities for dogs. Most therapists agree that it is beneficial and healthy to divert your attention from your difficulties with these responsibilities.
They offer stability.
Therapy dogs can detect when a patient is not feeling well. Dogs can read people when they are grieving and induce empathy if they display depressed facial expressions. Dogs are emotionally intelligent, given how they react to human emotions. Therapy dogs are helpful when there has been a great deal of loss or loneliness.
Therapy dogs can be beneficial in relationships.
An excellent illustration would be a child with autism who struggles with speech. A dog can assist in fostering communication between a parent and their autistic child. While talking to others can be difficult for persons with impairments, dogs offer a nonjudgmental environment where they can communicate. It motivates an individual to attempt to express their needs with a human.
They increase our feel-good hormones.
Once a client interacts with a therapy dog, you will see a significant change in them due to your helping them during a crisis. Cortisol levels will fall while those of oxytocin and endorphins rise. Moreover, dogs can increase serotonin and dopamine. They promote relaxation and well-being in people. Therapy dogs greatly comfort folks who have experienced trauma and also help people feel less alone.
They will be your workout partner.
Dogs enjoy working out outside. It’s how they decompress, just like people do. You can feel better by playing with a dog. They are always up for a good game of catch or frisbee. Exercising alongside a dog can reduce stress and anxiety. It is a healthful experience for both humans and dogs.
Therapy dogs reduce blood pressure.
Therapy dogs can trigger reduced blood pressure, heart rate, and stress levels. It is a lovely thing to enjoy affectionate moments with a dog. You feel at ease, secure, and rooted with their assistance. Due to their extreme patience and love, these dogs are educated to accept attention from all kinds of people.
Therapy dogs show love.
Last but not least, therapy dogs offer unconditional love. They offer comfort and support during difficult times.
