The inclusion of pets into hospital and rehabilitation
environments has long been considered very therapeutic, and
pets continue to be an important part of life long after
rehabilitation has ended.
In addition to filling lonely hours with companionship, pets
can be trained, much like the more familiar Seeing Eye dogs, to
perform tasks and assist persons with disabilities in many
different ways.
The responsibility for pet care can enhance cognitive
functioning in ways that are more subtle and enjoyable than
traditional therapies. Fun activities often stimulate
individuals with low motivation in ways that are not often
achieved by sitting in front of a television set for hours on
end.
Pets are very good companions and help people feel less lonely.
They also respond with feedback which can negate inappropriate
behaviours, and interest in a pet may redirect egocentricity
that may arise from frontal lobe deficits.
Selecting a pet can be turned into a cognitive exercise of
planning. The choice of a pet should be fun, not fraught with
discord. It's important to consider all options e.g. a
sophisticated set up of aquariums with pumps and filters may be
too complex for some.
Pets must be cared for, otherwise they fail to thrive. This may
be a hard lesson, possibly from time to time even cruel for the
animal, but individuals with brain injury must learn or relearn
this important fact of life.
Naturally a responsible adult should intervene if the pet's
health or well-being is adversely affected. When limitations
arising from the ABI are barriers to independently caring for a
pet of choice, talk with the individual about strategies that
will enable more independence and determine what duties will be
managed by whom so responsibilities can be monitored. Almost
everyone loves animals.
This often enhances social skills building for individuals when
encountering others in the park, neighbourhoods and other places
people congregate with pets. Have you ever been able to pass
without noticing or striking up a conversation with someone
sitting on a park bench with a colourful, exotic bird perched
on his or her shoulder?
Pets are great conversation pieces. Individuals with severe
brain injury and other impairing conditions often have little
control over their lives. Owning a pet can provide an
opportunity for controlling at least one facet of their lives -
their pet!
Pets always have time for sharing with their owners and their
loyalty is indisputable.Pet therapy is a well-established
routine in many hospitals, nursing homes and rehabilitation
centres.
Anecdotal accounts tell of the benefits of pets being in the
presence of people in all stages of recovery, rehabilitation
and even end-stage illnesses. The comforting and calming affect
of stroking a furry animal often elicits more relaxing facial
expressions and/or postures in persons even thought to be in
minimally-responsive states.
Nonverbal individuals generally respond with contented smiles
when pets are introduced into their environment. Almost all
individuals with disabilities can take some responsibility for
the care of an animal, even if it's no more than a daily
stroking or play session.
Dogs are frequently trained to assist individuals with brain
injury, particularly those with mobility impairments.
Custom-styled saddlebags can be placed on the dog and used for
carrying personal items, wallet, daily journal and other items
needed by those using wheelchairs and/or other assisting
devices that increase mobility.
Pets are indeed wonderful companions and can frequently impact
positively even on those for whom other therapies, exercises
and/or future promise for continuing recovery hold little
interest.
About The Author: Exploring the growing trend of pet therapy.
www.pettherapyfacts.info
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