The Therapeutic Nature of Our Furry Friends

Animals can comfort many, whether they are therapy animals or not. No matter how long they think you've been gone, they’re always there for you when you come home. But what makes that connection so unique, and what are its benefits?

The animal-human connection has evolved over the years. At first, it started as a working relationship. There were police horses, cavalry horses, carrier pigeons, and many others. Animals were a more significant help to us than many of us realize, and even now, they still help us; however, how they help us has changed.

As humans, we can gain a lot from having pets, whether it’s just companionship or helping us across the street. But, many pet owners don’t realize how many ways their pets can help them. According to Michigan State’s College of Veterinary Medicine, pets can reduce stress, lower blood pressure, and raise blood oxytocin levels. Furthermore, people living with dogs are 15 percent less likely to die from heart disease. While pets can help our physical health, they can also help our mental health. An example of this help would be the service dogs visiting our school. 

“I just think it’s an alternative way to support kids, and we want to come up with as many things for people to feel safe and supported, and that’s just another way that might get someone to feel good.” Mrs. Allsion Hoskins

Therapy dogs are brought to institutions to provide comfort for the people there. For example, they can be brought to hospitals, retirement homes, nursing homes, schools, or other places that may need assistance. There are some therapy dogs that live in the facility with patients who may need occupational therapy and even patients who have dementia. We get the occasional visit from therapy dogs here at SJHS, but why did they first get brought in?

“It’s pretty much a practice in a lot of schools now. We hear about it from other school districts, but Janet Cooper, she reached out to us and offered it.” Mrs. Amy Peterson said. 

The school is partnered with the Best Friends 4-H Club and has occasionally had visits from The Bark Angles. Through positive feedback and smiling faces from staff and students, the school plans to continue these visits from some of our favorite furry friends.