Is it true that dogs can be medically used to cope with depression and other mood disorders?

Question

I remember reading a while back that your dog could be used to cope with depression the same way a dog is used for blind people, or deaf people. I was wondering if someone could get me more information on the subject? THanks!

Answer 1

Yes these kind of dogs are called PAT dogs, Pets As Therapy. It is shown that physically stroking a dog elevates the mood. They have them in hospices also. Sick patients often feel isolated and even the most withdrawn seem to open up and let the barriers down when their regular PAT visiting dog is around. These dogs bring everyday life closer and with it all the happy associations for them of home comforts. The constant companionship of an undemanding animal, that gives unconditional love, is often one of the most missed aspects of their lives. PAT was formed to help make this loss more bearable and speed recovery. Cats can also be used.

Answer 2

Well, I don't know if I would use the word "the same way a dog is used for blind people or deaf people." In these cases, the dog is acting as a helper to do thing, such as tell the person when to cross the street, or answer the door when the doorbell rings.

For depression, they believe that the love and support of a pet helps elevate people's mood. In fact, studies have shown that when people pet animals, there blood pressure drops and they feel better. Perhaps endormorphins are released or the hormones that make people feel loved are released.

Think about it, when you go home from a bad day at work or school, and your dog who loves you unconditionally comes up wagging his tail, you feel love from your dog. Hence, your body reacts and you feel better.

Dogs and cats (and other pets) have tremendous abilities to heal us in many ways. It is too bad that people forget about that.

Answer 3

Yes, dogs can be 'used' to help treat depression and other mood disorders, because like cats and other 'soft furry animals' they help lower the blood pressure, and because they don't do anything but LOVE UNCONDITIONALLY that is a 'big help' to many people. These are called 'helper dogs' and there are a few agencies that can help you get the right dog for you or the person you are asking this question for ... but I don't know where or how to 'find' that dog. You could try checking a phone book, or you could go to a 'search engine' and write 'helper dogs for people with depression' and see what agencies are in that list, or you could simply 'ask the doctor' who is treating that person for help. GOOD LUCK.

Answer 4

yes they do. My therapist actually has to dogs that she has trained and brings into her office with her. The clients love it and say that it is very calming.