Animal therapy has proven very helpful time after time. Human-animal interaction releases Oxytocin, which is commonly referred to as “the love hormone.”It reduces stress and induces feelings of happiness when released during bonding activities. Furthermore, petting and playing with animals boosts serotonin and dopamine in the brain and decreases cortisol levels. Serotonin and dopamine are responsible for impulse control and mood moderation. Lower levels of these chemicals results in an increased risk of depression and risk-taking behaviors. The hormone Cortisol is released in response to stress. Last year Tootsie Roll and I were inspired to join the Healing Paws Chapter of Love on a Leash. We revisited her social skills by hiring an in-home trainer, passed the LOAL test and the Canine Good Citizen Test, and we have began our supervised Healing Paws visits. If you have a dog, cat or rabbit that you know could provide loving therapy to a community of people check out any of my links below or comment to this blog!
Love on a Leash - Healing Paws Chapter
Tootsie Roll helping Butler Students DeStress During Final Exams Semester I - 2019
Love on a Leash National Organization Website....so you can find a local chapter to join or to contact and bring to a group you know would benefit:)
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