Animals can help humans cope with and recover from a variety of physical and mental health issues

Many physical and mental issues can be alleviated by interacting with a loving pet. Pet therapy, as it is called, is administered by a doctor or therapist overseeing the patient’s treatment, allowing individuals to interact with a trained animal in the presence of the animal’s caretaker or handler.

The most common pets used in pet therapy are dogs and cats. Horses, guinea pigs, fish, and other animals that match the screening criteria may also be used. The type of animal chosen is determined by the therapeutic aims of the individual’s treatment plan. A pet therapy programme’s objectives may include enhancing motor skills and joint mobility, enhancing either assisted or independent movement, boosting self-esteem, increasing verbal communication, and enhancing social skills, among others. Other advantages of pet therapy is that it makes the individual happier and less depressed, promotes a positive mindset, and helps children learn empathic and nurturing skills. Apart from these, pet therapy can help lower blood pressure and improve cardiovascular health. It also has the ability to release endorphins, which have a relaxing effect. This can help to reduce pain, tension, and improve one’s general mental health.