Animal therapy

 Animal therapy

We're all familiar with the idea that having pets can have a beneficial effect on our mental health. 

With their presence, boundless enthusiasm, cuddly potential, and even their excellent listening skills, they often add a joy to our daily lives.

While all animals have the potential to benefit their humans, some are more professional in this regard. 

Examples include the guide dogs of the Mira Foundation. These animals are literally essential to their owners' independence in society.

What is animal-assisted therapy?

Another category of animals with a high welfare rating is animals trained for animal-assisted therapy. The term animal-assisted therapy can be easily misused these days. 

Indeed, we tend to use it whenever an animal makes us feel better. However, there is a definition, training, and rules surrounding animal-assisted therapy.

"Zootherapy is a comprehensive approach based on the fundamental principle that there are natural bonds between humans and animals. Zootherapy activities are designed based on the attraction that the animal exerts on the person and its ability to stimulate them."

The organization also offers their own definition of animal therapy, which is: "intervention that is carried out individually or in a group using a carefully selected and trained pet animal, presented by a qualified person to an individual with the aim of eliciting reactions aimed at maintaining or improving their cognitive, physical, psychological or social potential."

Who can be a pet therapist?

It goes without saying that not just any companion, at any time, can call themselves a pet therapy animal, and the same goes for their owner.

Indeed, in order to be a zootherapy practitioner, you must have a significant background, particularly in helping relationships, and then follow specific training focused on zootherapy.

Long live animals!

The potential for helping animals is enormous, and thanks to certain professions like animal therapy, we can truly maximize the invaluable contribution animals make to our lives.