Dogs in Healthcare for Patients and Providers

In recent times, especially in those of the COVID pandemic, a lot of attention has been directed towards the impact of stress on human health and different methods of coping with it. One of the newer, more modern methods of coping with stress in the realm of healthcare is the presence of therapy animals, most especially dogs. Thorough research on this practice has scientifically proven that the interaction with support animals, even briefly can have a positive effect mentally and emotionally, for hospital patients or nursing home residents experiencing what is known as "hospitalization syndrome". This "syndrome" is associated with staying long-term in a hospital or long-term care like setting. According to "Effects of Animal-Assisted Therapy on Patients in the Department of Long-Term Care: A Pilot Study", for patients experiencing "hospitalization syndrome" interacting with therapy animals allowed for the patients to make the choice of a therapy that they wish to participate in, rather than everyday, routine treatments that tend to be unenjoyable and non-negotiable.

The ultimate argument behind this research will help to reveal any and all benefits that therapy animal-to-patient interactions can have for patients and their overall well-being. Dogs in particular offer a positive energy and attitude that, in a way, transfers to those they spend time with. Dogs in general are known for being very loving and loyal companions to their human counterparts. It is for these reasons that dogs are such successful therapy dogs.

Animal-assisted activities in human healthcare have the purpose of providing comfort in and improving the mood of their patients. Animal-assisted activities and therapy can benefit patients experiencing distress in a doctor's office or before going under anesthesia for an operation. In addition, they can provide support for the loved ones of patients who have just received news or are waiting for their loved one to wake up from a surgery. Not to mention, they also provide support and comfort for nurses and other healthcare providers who experience everyday distress that comes with their line of work. For so many people, whether patients, loved ones or providers, therapy dogs turn frowns into smiles, silence into conversation and gives those are lonely a bond like no other. In conclusion, there is no greater therapy than that offered by animals.