Therapy Dogs

How does animal assisted therapy work?

For non-verbal patients or those with severe anxiety or depression, pet therapy can be used as an avenue to help them open up. Spending time with a therapy dog doesn’t require a person to feel like they have to say or do the right thing. They can simply show up and receive comfort.

Spending time with a therapy dog allows someone dealing with a health issue to have judgment-free interactions and experience unconditional support. Petting or playing with a dog releases oxytocin, sometimes called the “love hormone,” in both your brain and the dog’s brain. The release of oxytocin is associated with:

• Lower levels of cortisol, or the “stress hormone”
• A sense of social connection
• Lower blood pressure
• Increased feelings of relaxation

These feelings can help patients feel more grounded and reduce anxiety and depression.

At ArtWell, we have 5 therapy dogs who come into the office at different times. Please put your paws together while I introduce:

If you are interested in pet assisted therapy and would like to be paired with one of our clinician’s dogs please let us know and we will make every effort to bring them in when your session is scheduled.