I think you might be referring to animal-assisted therapy, which is often shortened to animal therapy or pet therapy. It's a form of therapy that involves incorporating animals into treatment plans to support physical, emotional, and social well-being.
Here's a breakdown of what animal therapy entails:
- Different types of animals: Various animals can be used in therapy, including dogs, cats, horses, rabbits, and even dolphins. The choice of animal often depends on the specific needs and preferences of the person receiving therapy.
- Variety of settings: Animal therapy can take place in hospitals, assisted living facilities, rehabilitation centers, schools, mental health clinics, and even private homes.
- Diverse benefits: Research suggests that animal therapy can offer a wide range of benefits, including:
- Reduced anxiety and stress
- Improved mood and depression relief
- Enhanced social interaction and communication skills
- Increased motivation and participation in activities
- Improved physical rehabilitation outcomes
- Reduced feelings of loneliness and isolation
Animal therapy is not meant to replace traditional medical or therapeutic interventions, but rather, it can serve as a complementary treatment approach. Additionally, it's important to note that not everyone will benefit from animal therapy, and certain safety protocols and regulations need to be followed.
If you're interested in learning more about animal therapy, I encourage you to check out these resources:
- The Delta Society: https://philanthropynewsdigest.org/features/nonprofit-spotlight/delta-society
- Pet Partners: https://petpartners.org/
- Animal-Assisted Therapy International: https://aatinternational.com/
I hope this information helps! Let me know if you have any other questions.
