Animal therapy for wellness

Since I can ever remember, I've had a dog or an occasional cat (the latter of whom I am sadly allergic) who provided me with a great deal of comfort, friendship and some of my best memories. Their unconditional love underscored my need for affection and trust from someone who will never let me down and is always emotionally available. Having suffered in the past from mild depression, I can attest to their ability to therapeutically elevate my mood in an instant. So, I've decided to write on this subject and would enjoy knowing your personal experience with your favorite pet and how it's helped you through your toughest moments.

According to my sources, animals have been used for thousands of years as companions and comfort to their owners. Today, we see animals being partnered with a variety of needs, from returning war veterans, aging residents at nursing homes, abused children and terminally ill patients. Their role is quite simple; they provide positive and attentive affection and companionship, something everyone needs. In addition, they provide mental stimulation, positive psychological benefits. While they may not "heal" the physical pain, they help to heal the emotional wounds while motivating us to "hang in there".

There are many wonderful resources for animal assisted therapy (AAT) and/or animal assisted activities (AAA) that offer most of their services for free. Listed below are just two organizations that offer training for animals and their handlers/owners or who can provide you with further information on AAA or AAT service organizations:

*American Animal Humane Society – Provides a wonderful program for both AAT and AAA services.

American Animal Humane Society

63 Inverness Drive East
Englewood, CO 80112

(800) 227-4645 or (303) 792-9900

Fax: (303) 792-5333 (Monday through Friday, 8 am to 5 pm, Mountain Time)

*Delta Society – Provides training and membership for volunteers who enlist in their program.

Delta Society

875 124th Ave NE #101
Bellevue, WA 98005
Phone: (425) 679-5500
Fax: (425) 679-5539

I'd love to hear your personal stories or experiences using animal therapy or if you have additional resources, please provide them and I'll post them in future blogs on this subject.