Therapy dogs are quickly becoming a popular way to offer emotional support and comfort to those in need. Trained to interact with all kinds of people, therapy dogs differ from assistance dogs that help specific patients with their physical needs. These affectionate canines work diligently to care for people in hospitals, retirement homes, libraries, schools, hospices, and disaster areas.
Therapy dogs provide various benefits to those interacting, including lowered anxiety and stress levels, decreased loneliness and depression, and increased happiness and well-being. The dogs' gentle presence and unconditional love positively impact everyone they meet.
These wonderful therapy dogs have found a way to engage with people who may be withdrawn or unresponsive. It's fantastic to see the connections and affection that these dogs bring out in people.
The use of therapy dogs is not limited to nursing homes or hospitals. These well-trained pups also help children improve their reading skills by being non-judgmental listeners in libraries and schools. Their calming presence can also help those affected by natural disasters to cope with trauma and loss.
Therapy dogs have been shown to help people with various conditions, including post-traumatic stress disorder, anxiety, depression, autism, and dementia. They comfort people in times of distress and offer valiant support to those suffering from mental illness.
Therapy dogs offer a beacon of light in a world of darkness. They help bring people together and heal both the body and mind," says Jennifer, a nurse in a hospital.
Reflection Life Style knows that therapy dogs have brought incredible joy and love into countless lives. Their unique ability to touch the hearts of people from all walks of life makes them truly special animals.
About Reflection Lifestyle
Reflections is a Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP) and Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) that provides meaningful treatment to adolescents in middle and high school (ages 11-18) and adults (ages 18-65) suffering from mental health, substance use, and co-occurring disorders.
