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We all know about the tremendous role animals such as guide dogs have played in helping people with physical disabilities live fuller, more productive lives, but what about persons with psychiatric disabilities? Can animals help with their recoveries? The answer is yes they can, and yes they do!
“Pet Facilitated Therapy” actually started over 50 years ago, when a well-known Russian psychologist observed that his dog was the key to encouraging a frightened, withdrawn 10-year-old boy to begin to talk to him.
One current example can be found in a New York therapist’s office, in which a client gets the benefit of three therapists each session: one human, two feline (only the human charges). The human therapist says that when people walk into her office for the first time they are often tense and nervous, but the minute they see the cats they relax and actually will talk about painful and difficult subjects with the cats on their laps.
Another current example is taking place in New York. Community Access, Inc. is a non-for-profit agency based in lower Manhattan, which helps people living with psychiatric disabilities make the transition from shelters and hospitals to independent living. They have taken the concept of pets helping in the recovery process one step further with their innovative Pet Access program.
Pet Access was created because of Community Access’ belief in the healing potential a relationship with a pet can bring to people. Unfortunately, mental illness can be a disease of isolation, anxiety and loneliness. Having a pet such as a dog or cat can be a very effective way for a person to learn how to establish close, trusting, non-judgmental, unconditional personal relationships. Community Access also believes that a healthy relationship with a pet can open the door to better relationships with other people, such as acquaintances and peers.
The strong impact of the Pet Access program can be found directly from the participants themselves. Here are just a few of the many responses people gave when asked how their pets obtained through Pet Access Program have impacted their lives:
“I’m much more careful about my recovery because I have to care for my pets. They depend on me.”
“He has made my life happier.”
“Since I walk her, I get to meet people.”
“He makes my day beautiful.”
“It makes me feel more independent because of the responsibility.”
“I get less and less panic attacks.”
“He has shown me that it is okay to love and be happy.”
“I can’t imagine betraying her and going back to my old ways.”
“I feel safer, more self-assured and have piece of mind.”
“You need to be needed by someone.”
Pet Access seeks to be the bridge between people and pets. To this end it provides Pet Access participants with information about New York City dog adoption agencies and gives some financial assistance with adoption fees. The project also provides participants with new pet-owner start-up supplies, one year of veterinary insurance covering basic vet needs and a resource guide detailing vet services, food suppliers, vaccine information, spay and neutering services and pet care tips. In the past, Pet Access has even provided access to a dog trainer when the need arose.