Super Dogs: Helping Humans to Help Themselves

Therapy dogs, dogs that are trained to help disabled people or patients undergoing stressful procedures in hospitals, are fast-becoming integral parts of healing, Parade magazine reports. In fact, the canine brigade of therapy dogs is over 30,000 strong in the US the article states.

How are these furry friends of ours so helpful?  The unconditional bond that is forged between the dog and the person interacting with it, is the key. The connection from the comfort of the dog's presence -- even merely stroking the animal provides benefits -- helps draw out those who have withdrawn, or those whose moods needs lifting.

Special needs children maintain better focus and remain calmer, helping to improve their progress, by being around therapy dogs.

Sometimes the dog will do, in one visit, what couldn't be accomplished from traditional modes of therapy, proving that man's and woman's best friend is often that and more.

Read the full piece here.

Photo courtesy of Ksuzsanna Kilián@sxc.hu