Animal therapy has been scientifically proven to aid both your mental and physical health. Just from petting and interacting with animals, an automatic relaxation response is triggered in the body through the release of serotonin, prolactin, oxytocin, and phenylethylamine. These are some of the same hormones that are released when you eat chocolate or exercise!
Animals provide us with comfort and relaxation as they give us a happy distraction or a reduction in loneliness. Physically, they diminish overall pain by lowering blood pressure and improving cardiovascular health. Further, animals have done extraordinary things to help people in need. Patients with head injuries or chronic diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease have been able to recall memories and children with Autism have been able to engage in a significantly greater use of language and social interaction through therapy because of their bond with animals.
Whether you are feeling lonely, anxious, or just in need of a furry friend, everyone alike can benefit from pug therapy. Read on to learn how animal assisted therapy can be of benefit to you!
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Here are some of the key similarities and differences.