Pet therapy

The presence of animals themselves is calming! Health and social inducing hormones such as Oxytocin, dopamine and endorphins are some of the best and most powerful social hormones we have. It has been cited in many studies that in addition to increasing levels in these hormones, interactions with animals can also lower heart rate and blood pressure. 

There is a physiological, emotional and psychological component to interacting with animals during therapy. The key that links all of these positive benefits together is the hormone oxytocin. Oxytocin is a powerful healing mechanism and it is the most grossly affected hormone in the most positive way, through human to animal interaction. Patting a dog, cat or just being in their presence reduces stress, anxiety, depression, boredom, feelings of isolation or loneliness and due to these reasons’ animal therapy is undeniable. 

Here at Support Link Services, Animal assisted therapy can serve in conjunction with work provided by a social worker, counsellor or therapist, we believe that animals can provide a sense of calm or safety and we have a number of furry friends ready to meet you.

• Animal assisted therapy reduces stress and anxiety.

• Provides a sense of calm which can lower heart rate and blood pressure.

• Can improve upon levels of Oxytocin, which is a powerful and natural healing mechanism.