Animals always make people feel happier when they’re around. This is a reason as to why animals are becoming additions to therapy for many different types of people and treatments. They have proven to be very effective by providing physical, psychological or emotional benefits to the patients. 

Not all therapy animals have the same job nor are they trained the same. Animal Assisted Therapy, or AAS, is a goal-orientated, planned and structured therapy intervention put in place by doctors. This is the main therapy route taken with animals. There’s also Animal Assisted Activities, or AAA, which is to provide opportunities for motivational, educational or recreational benefits to improve one’s quality of life.

Anthony Antolak, Government and Economics teacher, disclosed “My dog is an AKC (American Kennel Club) therapy dog that has worked with pediatric, physical therapy patients. My wife is a pediatric physical therapist and has used our dog in therapy sessions.”

Dogs are used at St. Jude Hospital to help with the children. St. Jude has two dogs that visit the hospital routinely. The dogs offer support during procedures, motivate patients to move around after surgery, get children to comply with taking their medicine and even help with end-of-life needs.

“I want one for my dad to alert him when he is running sugar lows, but they are thousands of dollars. I wish that there was a better way to provide them for the people who need them,” explained art teacher Kristen Dutka. 

Many people think that therapy animals have to be dogs, but that’s not true. These animals can be cats, rabbits, dogs and even horses. 

Students and teachers involved in the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting were introduced to equine therapy the day after the tragedy. The horses of Zoar Ridge Stables helped victims of post-traumatic stress disorder ease their stress and bring them happiness. Because of this, the Embrace Hope Foundation was born. It’s a nonprofit organization that offers equine therapy to those in need of it. The foundation and stables are both located in Newtown, Connecticut. 

Therapy animals are very helpful for patients battling illnesses like depression, schizophrenia and similar ones. They’ve been recognized for improving pain and mood in outpatients with fibromyalgia. These animals also increase positive behaviors among children with autism. 

 A total of 49 studies reporting on AAT found that patients with autism, behavioral issues and medical conditions showed positive outcomes and improved emotional well-being. A 2016 study for Anxiety and Depression Association of America found that pets provide a sense of security, alone with emotional and social support.

The use of therapy animals continues to grow each day. They help thousands, even millions, of people each year. Hopefully, in the coming years, these animals will become more prominent.