Posted by Jess Saba on Tue, Oct 06, 2009 @ 11:19 AM
Volunteer With Your Dog for Pet Therapy
Pets have a special ability to change our moods, motivate us to exercise and be social and to know when we need attention. When we make him wag his tail by petting his fur, go running in the park, meet other dogs and their owners or feel the satisfaction of feeding him after a long day, it is easy to feel the positive impact he has on our life.
Pet therapy programs rely on the ability to harness the positive effects animals have on human emotions. Introducing dogs to patients has proven to help people deal with anxiety, the blues, loneliness and depression, especially in children's hospitals and elderly homes.
The New York Times published an article which looks at the effects dogs have on patients with different illnesses. The mother of an autistic boy named Milo claims that within a week of introducing Milo to the new family dog her son became calmer, more attentive and more verbal. The effects of the relationship are so apparent that the mother is considering decreasing the amount of medication her son takes.
Volunteer Your Time and Your Pet
Many people take time to bring their dog to visit hospital patients. If you would like volunteer with your pet visit you local humane society, professional dog trainer or local pet therapy organization for more information on how to become certified for animal assisted therapy.
Click here, New York Times to read the article, " Exploring the Health Benefits of Pets."