Photo Credit: Wavebreakmedia / iStockPhoto.com
Owning a Pet Improves Mood
The reason why pets are used in therapies so often is because they make you feel wanted. With their unconditional love, they make you realize how important you are and how dependable they are on you, making you more responsible and worthy.
Dogs are now used as a common relief therapy for soldiers suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). With a pet as a buddy, a lower suicide rate has been observed among veterans while also finding it easier to re-enter society. They feel more comfortable because they have found a true companion who they care for, can rely upon, and who doesn’t require any explanation of what they have been through.
Resources
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (Health Benefits of Pets)Loyola Medicine (Animal Therapy Reduces Need For Pain Medication After Joint-Replacement Surgery)Diabetes Forecast (Could a Dog Save Your Life?)Cachexia is a wasting disorder where the person will lose tremendous amounts of weight and muscle mass. Learn more about it here.