The benefits of pet therapy

March 6, 2020

Known internationally as pet therapy, in Italy pet or affection therapy is also indicated with the expression Animal Assisted Interventions (IAA). It is a co-therapy which, in the health sector, complements traditional treatments (psychotherapy, physiotherapy, pharmacological treatments…) to gently favor a positive medical course and a better quality of life for the patient. Today, moreover, there are frequent cases of AAI activated in various fields, both educational and playful. In both contexts, however, pet therapy works according to the same principle: the relationship with the pet stimulates emotional activation, which always brings with it the opening to new experiences and new channels of communication. The recipients par excellence of the interventions are children (as well as the elderly and people with disabilities or mental disorders), for whom pet therapy is an extraordinary panacea: since the animal gives itself completely, it does not judge and has no prejudices, because it makes you smile naturally, his company promotes socialization, self-esteem, the ability to take care of another being and the channeling of aggression, as well as speeding up learning processes.

It has also been proven that, through contact with the animal, the heartbeat slows down and anxieties and fears diminish, all things that favor the child's full expression and, also, his active participation in the treatment process or in educational activities. Identifying the right animal is the first step for pet therapy to be successful. The National Guidelines recommend using only pets: first of all dogs but also cats, rabbits, donkeys and horses. Type and specific sample are selected on the basis of the patient/user's personal preferences, his psychophysical abilities, any phobias or allergies and, obviously, on the basis of the emotional response encountered in the first sessions. Each animal must be certified and have the necessary health, behavioural, aptitude and capacity requirements, assessed by a veterinarian expert in pet therapy. Another essential requirement is the relationship between the pet and its handler, who will be present in all therapy sessions. Taken from Born Mom | by Nora Cinaschi