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Another of the studies showed that seven- to 11-year-old children who expressed fear and anxiety prior to their dental visits had significantly less behavioral distress when Shamu, a therapy dog, was present. For example, there was less crying and struggling, compared to the behavior of a similar group who were not exposed to Shamu. The dog sat on a stool and the children frequently hugged her tightly. Since fears developed in childhood can follow one into adulthood, reducing fears through such approaches can have lifelong benefits.
Alzheimer's Helpers Although the study of human/animal relationships began only about 25 years ago, many treatments and interventions involving pets and therapy animals have now been subjected to the rigors of scientific research. As America's population ages and pressures on healthcare spending increase, the healthcare system may find the important and relatively inexpensive role of animals increasingly valuable in maintaining and improving human health. For more information on the health benefits of animals, visit www.deltasociety.org. Delta Society is an international nonprofit organization that unites people who have mental and physical disabilities and patients in healthcare facilities with professionally trained animals to help improve their health. Dr. Baun is the Lee & Joseph D. Jamail Distinguished Professor at the University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston School of Nursing, and Ms. Dapper is Vice President of Program Operations for Delta Society. |
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