Animal-Assisted Therapy (AAT) is a form of creative therapy that utilizes licensed and credentialed therapy animals and handlers (people who manage the animal) to provide goal-directed interventions to individuals of all ages.
Studies have shown that AAT can help reduce anxiety, loneliness, depression, while also increasing self esteem. AAT also appears to have a positlve and calming effect on individuals' suffering from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).
People that participate in AAT have shown to have increased levels of oxytocin, dopamine, and endorphin while also lowering blood pressure and cortisol levels. Increased Oxytocin levels can help activate the parasympathetic nervous system, which is linked to growth and restoration. Helping in healing wounds, decreasing inflammation, and lowering anxiety.
Most importantly therapy animals are non-judgmental and give unconditional affection, regardless of appearance, disability, or diagnosis!
"The Truth About Animal-Assisted Therapy" Brandi-Ann Uyemura
Studies have shown that AAT can help reduce anxiety, loneliness, depression, while also increasing self esteem. AAT also appears to have a positlve and calming effect on individuals' suffering from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).
People that participate in AAT have shown to have increased levels of oxytocin, dopamine, and endorphin while also lowering blood pressure and cortisol levels. Increased Oxytocin levels can help activate the parasympathetic nervous system, which is linked to growth and restoration. Helping in healing wounds, decreasing inflammation, and lowering anxiety.
Most importantly therapy animals are non-judgmental and give unconditional affection, regardless of appearance, disability, or diagnosis!
"The Truth About Animal-Assisted Therapy" Brandi-Ann Uyemura
