The benefits of a therapy dog

Dogs have been known to help people with emotional and behavioural problems, who find it hard to express themselves. Being with a dog during therapy can take the focus off them and could help the client to explore emotional thoughts and feelings that can be difficult to talk about.

Having a dog in the therapy room can help clients to understand boundaries. A dog is very good at self-soothing, taking themselves away from situations they are not comfortable in.

Interacting with the dog has the benefits of increasing the client’s self-worth. The dog would want to engage with the client. When the dog wants their attention and engages in play the client benefits from a lifting of their mood, an increased sense of belonging, and being noticed.

Other benefits include:

• reducing stress and anxiety

• caring for the animal, caring for yourself

• social interaction

• developing relationships

• improving your mood

Interestingly in domestic situation 75% of pet owners report their pet has improved a friend or family members’ mental health.

Studies have shown that a prolonged interaction with a dog can boost oxytocin levels up to 300%, oxytocin is nicknamed by some experts “the tend and befriend hormone” it is one of the most important hormones that humans (and many other mammals) produce. It plays an important role in social bonding and building relationships.

In everyday occurrences dogs measurably boost positive social behaviours, such as active verbal communication and eye contact. They also provide such a morale boost that it has become widely acceptable in recent decades for employees to bring a pet into a professional office setting.

Adding the option to our clients of the inclusion of our therapy dog Cockapoo Daisy has been well received to date.

As part of their journey with us our clients working face to face with us get the option of the added benefit of a furry companion.