Purina BetterWithPets Prize aims to help one million people
The Pawsitive Power of Pets: How Animals Are Boosting Mental Health and Wellbeing
We all know it instinctively: the comforting purr of a cat, the enthusiastic greeting from a dog, the calming presence of an animal nearby. But the impact pets and therapy animals have on our mental health is more than just anecdotal. Research confirms the powerful bond between humans and animals and its profound benefits.
Beyond Cuteness: The Science-Backed Benefits of Animal Companionship
Whether you’ve encountered a gentle therapy dog providing comfort in a hospital setting or simply experienced your own pet’s increased affection during a stressful day, you’ve witnessed firsthand the magic they bring. The positive effects of interacting with animals extend to:
Reduced Stress and Anxiety: Studies show that petting an animal can lower cortisol levels (the stress hormone) and increase oxytocin (the “love” hormone).
Increased Social Interaction: Walking a dog or visiting a pet-friendly park can lead to interactions with other people, combating loneliness and isolation.
Improved Mood and Self-Esteem: Caring for an animal provides a sense of purpose and responsibility, boosting self-esteem and overall mood.
Pain Management: Therapy animals can provide comfort and distraction for patients experiencing chronic pain or undergoing medical procedures.
Purina’s Pledge: Helping One Million Through the Human-Animal Bond
Leading pet food company Purina recognizes this immense potential and is committed to leveraging the power of the human-animal bond to improve lives. Through their “BetterWithPets Prize,” they support charities that are dedicated to helping vulnerable populations through animal-assisted interventions. Purina aims to positively impact one million people by 2030.
Pets As Therapy: Bringing Comfort and Joy to Those Who Need It Most
One shining example is Pets As Therapy, a UK-based organization striving to ensure everyone, regardless of circumstance, has access to the comfort and companionship of a pet. Their dedicated volunteers and their furry companions visit hospitals, care homes, and schools, spreading joy and therapeutic support.
Heartwarming Stories: Real-Life Examples of Animal-Assisted Therapy
Andy Price, a volunteer with Pets As Therapy, shares his experience with his dogs, Lola and Ozzy:
“Every time Lola entered the room, it was like an emotional lightbulb had been turned on,” Andy recounts, describing visits to a local care home. He later began bringing his dogs to Great Ormond Street Hospital, where “Ozzy Fridays” became a highly anticipated event for children and their families facing extended hospital stays. Ozzy provides comfort before procedures, accompanies children to tests and scans, and even offers a paw to hold during treatment.
Diana Smith, another dedicated volunteer, brings her golden retriever, Ollie, to visit residents in a care home. Inspired by a similar experience her mother had during rehabilitation, Diana witnessed firsthand how Ollie’s presence brought a “positive shift” in residents, particularly those struggling with mobility and speech.
More Than Just Visits: A Deep Connection with Lasting Impact
These touching stories highlight the profound impact therapy animals have on individuals facing challenging circumstances. As Andy Price aptly puts it, “It is that huge ‘lightbulb’ smile when they see the dog and the enormous difference that it makes as they go through often the toughest time in their lives and that of their families.”
The dedication of volunteers like Andy and Diana, supported by organizations like Pets As Therapy and initiatives like Purina’s “BetterWithPets Prize,” underscore the powerful potential of the human-animal bond to improve mental health, foster connection, and bring joy to those who need it most. Let’s continue to recognize and celebrate the incredible pawsitive power of pets!
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Image credit: Photo by Rachel McDermott on Unsplash | Source: Original Article
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