Pet therapy is a term used to describe the use of animal companionship for improving human health and well-being. Proponents of animal-assisted therapy believe that interactions with pets can have positive effects on people with a wide range of physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual health conditions. Caregivers widely use pet therapy in assisted living care, nursing homes and hospitals.
Many health professionals suggest pet therapy as an effective treatment for people who have dementia. Studies have shown that people who spend time with animals have lower stress levels and feel less lonely than those who don’t have a pet. In addition, pets benefit from the activity because it gives them a sense of purpose.
