Date of the last update: 19.04.2024
In today’s busy world, we are looking for a variety of forms of therapy that not only provide mental relief, but also bring joy and pleasure. One of the most fascinating practices is dog therapy, which uses the unique bond between humans and dogs to improve mental and physical health.
Table of contents:
- What is dog therapy?
- What does dog therapy help with?
- Benefits of dog therapy
- What dog breeds are used in dog therapy?
- Summary
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What is dog therapy?
Dog therapy, also known as therapy with dogs, is a form of supportive therapy in which specially trained dogs play a key role. The main aim of dog therapy is to improve the mental and physical health of patients through interaction with animals. These faithful canines are able to provide a sense of security, unconditional love and bring a smile to the most difficult situations.
What does dog therapy help with?
Dogotherapy is an effective form of supportive therapy, offering a range of mental and physical health benefits. Dogotherapy, because of its versatility, can be adapted to the different needs of patients, making it a valuable tool in the field of mental and physical health support. It is particularly helpful in:
- Stress and tension reduction: Interaction with a dog has the ability to reduce levels of cortisol, the stress hormone. This natural reduction in tension contributes to overall wellbeing.
- Improving mood: Dogs are known for their ability to evoke positive emotions. Playing, stroking and spending time with a dog can contribute to increased levels of endorphins, known as happy hormones.
- Motivation to move: Physical activity associated with interactions with the dog, such as walking or playing, can provide motivation to move, which is especially beneficial for people with physical limitations.
- Social skills development: Particularly with children, interacting with a dog is a great exercise for developing social skills such as empathy, communication and relationship-building skills.
- Treatment of mental disorders: Dog therapy is proving to be effective in the treatment of various mental disorders, such as depression, anxiety or behavioural disorders. Dogs are able to create a safe environment that is conducive to conversation and the expression of emotions.
- Support in therapy for children with autism: In therapy for children with autism, dogs play a stabilising role, helping to develop social skills and alleviate communication difficulties.
- Reducing loneliness: For older or lonely people, the presence of a dog as a companion can significantly reduce feelings of isolation and loneliness.
- Therapy for post-traumatic stress disorder: For those experiencing trauma, interaction with a dog can provide a safe environment to support the healing and recovery process.
Check out also: Animal-Assisted Therapy: Unleashing the Healing Power of Animals
Benefits of dog therapy
- Stress and Tension Reduction: Interaction with a dog has the ability to reduce levels of cortisol, the stress hormone, resulting in an overall reduction in tension and improved wellbeing.
- Improving Mood: Dogs are known for their ability to evoke positive emotions. By playing with a dog, patients often experience an increase in endorphins, known as happy hormones.
- Motivation to Move: Physical activity involving interaction with the dog, such as walking or playing, promotes motivation to move, which is particularly beneficial for people with physical limitations.
- Social Skills Development: For many patients, especially children, interaction with a dog provides an excellent exercise in developing social skills such as empathy and communication.
What dog breeds are used in dog therapy?
- Labrador retriever: Known for their gentleness and intelligence, Labradors are one of the most commonly used breeds in dog therapy. Their friendly nature makes them excellent companions for a variety of patient groups.
- German shepherd: These dogs are not only strong and physically resilient, but also have a strong bond with their owner. In dog therapy, they can be used to work with people with mental disorders.
- Cavalier king charles spaniel: Known for their gentleness and attachment to people, these small dogs are ideal companions for the elderly or children.
- Golden Retriever: Like Labradors, golden retrievers are warm, friendly and easily establish contact with a variety of patients, especially children.
- Mops: Due to their calm nature and small size, mops are often used in therapy with people who require a dog with a gentle approach.
Explore more: Abundance of plant and bird species affects people’s mental health
Summary
Dogotherapy, the use of interaction with a dog for therapeutic purposes, is an effective form of supportive therapy. Interaction with a dog has a number of benefits, such as stress reduction, mood improvement, development of social skills, motivation to move, support in the treatment of psychological disorders and many others. These animals not only act as companions, but also promote psycho-physical development, especially in the context of therapy for children with autism or people with experience of trauma. Dogotherapy is a valuable form of therapy that can be adapted to the different needs of patients, helping to improve mental and physical health.
