How Does Fibromyalgia Pet Therapy Relieve Pain
Studies have shown that when visited by dogs, chronically ill patients warded in hospitals have experienced a lower level of stress. Studies also show that petting a dog provides relaxation and has calming effects on all people. This results in better communication, improved learning and awareness. Therefore these reasons explain why pet therapy has become a norm even in clinics, hospitals and schools. They assist the deaf, blind, physically disabled individuals and those suffering from certain illnesses, such as Alzheimer’s and multiple sclerosis.
Many fibromyalgia patients believe that their dogs have helped to improve their ability to cope with pain. In fact, some patients constantly hug their dogs to help alleviate their pain. This is because the body heat of dogs serve as heat therapy, which helps reduce pain. Domesti-PUPS, an organization that trains and socializes dogs stated that almost 20 percent of their clients are suffering from fibromyalgia.
If I didn’t have my wee dog I don’t know what id do. He makes me get up and cook dinner for us both otherwise I would be lying in bed alday.i need to take care off him. And he gets me to play with him . Just throwing a ball bringing it back and putting it into my hand.. yes a dog is great for relaxing..
Any way to have a dog you already own made into a service dog?
Carolyn,
Yes, you can. It takes 1-2 years to fully train your dog. Find a service dog training provider in your location. They will be able to provide more information.
I think this article should include cats too because mine have helped me with my pain and stress because when I look into their eyes or hear their meow my heart just melts!!
I agree. My cat knows when I am hurting, and she crawls into bed with me and gives me lots ofkisses. She also makes sure I maintain an appropriate feeding time for both her and me. We have been together for 10 years and I hope we will be together for many more.I recently went away for a 2 week vacation without her (first time) and she suffered such separation anxiety that I had to take her to a vet. Now when I go away,my son comes home to stay with her so there are no problems.It was strange the first time that she reacted so badly as she stayed with a friend who she has known for years,but it was not at her own home. Cats can be very emotional too, not justdogs.
Colleen and Cheryl,
Yes, pet therapy is not limited to dogs, although it is the more common service pet choice. Some do use cats and other pets to provide physical and emotional support too.
My little dog gives me a reason to get up in a morning because I know he needs me to care for him. In return he gives me so much love and knows when I am feeling down he looks at me with his big brown eyes as if to say I’ll look after you.
He is my soul mate.
I had a cat that would sleep curled up next to my lower back, when he purred his body would vibrate softly, that plus his body heat would feel so nice and it would relieve my tense muscles. Now I have a small dog. The unconditional love of a pet helps relieve the depression and stress, and also makes me get up and walk him.