Pet Assisted Therapy - Dogs Helping our senior citizens

Dogs NSW supports the expansion of programs for dogs in aged care facilities. Companion canines can contribute constructively to aged care communities. Research over more than twenty years has shown that pet assisted therapy has beneficial effects on the physical and psychological well-being of aged care residents. Lower blood pressure and relaxed respiratory patterns are just some of the quantifiable improvements reported in residents of aged care facilities when they come into contact with a trained therapy dog. Recovery from illness is improved for many institutionalised people when pets are used in therapy. Interaction with trained and certified therapy animals has been shown to reduce the need for pain medication, and promotes postoperative activity. The unconditional companionship of a dog promotes speech and social activity in otherwise withdrawn people. The “Pets as Therapy” program introduced by the Guide Dog Association, and the Outreach Program coordinated by Australian Veterinary Association and the Animal Welfare League are both examples of programs for pet assisted therapy. Veterinary Adviser and Dogs NSW Spokesperson, Dr Peter Higgins, was involved with the introduction of these two programs in 1989. “I am pleased to see that our political leaders are recognising the therapeutic and soothing benefits of pets. Scientific research has shown conclusively that people benefit both physically and emotionally with dog therapy,” says Dr Higgins. Dogs have a non-judgemental relationship and are associated with unconditional love and affection. Life in an institution can often be lonely and isolated, and these problems can disappear in the presence of a canine companion. The long term therapy of regular interaction with pets has been shown to improve confidence and social activity. The presence of a dog can spark memories of a previous time, and rekindle a positive aspect about life. "No-one is saying that money should be diverted away from nursing and other forms of care but pet assisted therapy is complementary. It has many positive outcomes and is fully justifiable. Therapy dogs are not a new idea; they are mainstream," states Dr Higgins. Humans have had a relationship with companion animals for 130,000 years. Australians, in particular, have embraced the concept of pets as more than 12 million Australians have a pet. Residents of nursing homes should benefit from this lifestyle advantage, too. “It is more than just feel good. The human animal bond should never be underestimated: it goes back to the beginning of our species. Studies have shown that surgery patients and stroke victims in hospitals recover better as a result of having therapy dogs,” explains Dr Higgins.

  Taken from:  http://www.dogsnsw.org.au/resources/media/251-pet-assisted-therapy-dogs-helping-our-senior-citizens.html