Canine Assisted Therapy
 

Anyone who has ever felt the unconditional love of a family pet will intuitively understand why a therapy pet is awesome!  My therapy dog, Rusty, is a 10 year old Vizsla who absolutely loves to cuddle.

 

Research on the human-companion animal bond reveals many physical and psychological benefits.  A powerful biological mechanism exists when we are in contact with certain animals, especially a dog, cat, horse or even a dolphin: we release the "bonding hormone" known as OXYTOCIN.



psychological benefits of oxytocin

  • Increases optimism, trust, mastery and resilience
  • Promotes relaxation and deeper sleep
  • Counteracts the negative effects of trauma in relationships by activating the brain areas involved with understanding and response to social cues
  • Dials back obsessive thoughts about food and body size in people with eating disorders
  • Reduces anxiety and depression by lowering levels of cortisol (the stress hormone)
  • Reduces cravings of drug and alcohol addiction and sweets.
dreamstime_xl_19053123.jpg

We know that animal companions improve a person's mood, but now studies are showing their power to heal.  Recent research has linked pet therapy with dogs and cats to health benefits.



Physical Health Benefits of Oxytocin

  • Higher survival rates after illness
  • Fewer visits to the doctor
  • Lower blood pressure and heart rate
  • Stronger immunity (by lowering levels of the stress hormone Cortisol)
  • More efficient digestion

Did you know...

  • Freud included his dog "Jofi" in therapy sessions with adolescent patients to help them relax and confide more easily
  • Florence Nightingale promoted the use of pets when treating illness
  • Since 1945, the American Red Cross includes pets as therapeutic partners in military convalescent care.

Art Therapy...

is the therapeutic use of creating art.  Such therapy can improve the physical, mental and emotional well-being of individuals of all ages.  A person does not need any experience in art in order to benefit from art therapy.  The process of creating art can increase a client's self-awareness, insight and ability to cope with problems, stress and traumatic experiences.  I received a BFA in Fine Arts and a BA in Art History from the University of Texas at Austin in 1988 and utilize mandalas, masks and free-form art.