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Tags: health, wellness, physical therapy, therapy dogs
 Many may well be aware of the therapeutic benefits of keeping a pet, particularly a dog. Dogs, in essence are loyal and are capable of giving unconditional affection to their owners. Being a non-judgmental animal which is exclusively devoted to serving and keeping their owners happy, a pet dog can provide the warmth of a comforting company which can be very helpful for stress relief.
Dogs are referred to as man’s best friend owing to their strong instinctive nature of being sensitive to their owner’s feelings, and by no doubt, a strong bond and connection can develop between the two. With such principles, it may not be surprising why therapy dogs have become significant in the health field.
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Therapy dogs are tremendously helpful in patient recovery which is why more and more doctors, therapists and mental health professionals make use of their aid. For the elderly, the physically impaired and brain injury patients, therapy dogs have been helpful in providing company and comfort other than aid in recovery.
The same can be said with patients in hospitals and treatment centers. Dogs involved in Animal Assisted Therapy are used in various settings and in different countries. Merely petting and brushing therapy dogs are basically a part of the patient’s therapy process, such as helping with fine muscle control. Taking the dog for a walk in outings to parks and recreational areas can complete the patient’s large muscle therapy as well.
There may be little scientific evidence as to how or why therapy dogs work so well with patients, but nevertheless, the therapy they provide is effective. There are therapists who believe in the theory that dogs help the patients develop self-esteem and self-confidence with the unconditional love they exhibit. Another school of though also asserts that spending time with or caring for a dog brings back the positivity of childhood or pleasant past experiences.
Therapy dogs are regarded as friends by many patients. Visits from therapy dogs and their therapists are often seen by shut in, isolated or elderly patients as a chance for interaction with another living being. It can be both socially and emotionally positive for patients to be in the company of therapy dogs which are non-judgmental and are always happy to see them.
There are no specific requirements of breed, size or age for therapy dogs. In most cases, therapy dogs are large or medium sized, but small dogs can be as effective for therapy as well. Volunteer owners and dogs generally participate with many organizations whereby they visit hospitals or health care facilities and work in conjunction with trained therapists and health care professionals.
It is of course necessary for therapy dogs to be calm and well-behaved. Therapy dogs must not have a history of disobedience or aggression in new or unfamiliar settings. Other than that, therapy dogs should be sociable and are not apt to often whine and bark, otherwise it would be disturbing to the clients and the patients.
For therapy dogs to be efficient, it may be best that they go through special obedience and other forms of training.
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About the author
The author of this article Rose Windale is a Health and Wellness Coach who has been successful with several natural health programs for many years. Rose recently published a step-by-step guide on how to lose weight the EASY way and become totally healthy and happy. More info on her life-changing eating habits plan HERE.
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