Many people who live alone own at least one pet. But now dogs are being linked to lower stress levels, according to new research.
The evidence found by the American Journal of Cardiology says the presence of a cat or dog increases the human heart’s ability to adapt to a stressful event. Moreover, the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology concluded from their study that pets could act as a substitute for a human relationship, providing the same relative amount of emotional support.
So what does this research mean? While dogs have been long unwelcome in public spaces like schools and office buildings, that’s slowly changing. Michigan is one of the first states to start welcoming ‘therapy dogs’ into courts, schools, prisons, juvenile facilities, or anywhere people can benefit from the de-stressing effects of physical canine contact.
Dogs in the Classroom
At Novi High School in Detroit, Henry the Portuguese water dog is bringing peace and serenity to autistic students who cannot thrive and keep up with other kids in a hectic school environment. The dog’s mere presence has prevented temper tantrums, while other students who normally remain silent will speak to the dog more than their peers. Henry has given a voice to these special needs students who before lacked social interaction in their lives.
Dogs in the Courts
In the same way, therapy dogs have benefited veterans who find themselves in trouble with the court system. Many veterans like Kevin Fowler return from their tour of duty angry, stressed, and depressed—feelings that, when released, get them in trouble with the law. Thanks to attending the Canine Advocacy Program, Fowler was able to clear his name. During the program Fowler would attend meetings with other vets, court personnel, and a Doberman named Tuesday. With Tuesday there, he was able to calm down and open up to his fellow veterans.
Dogs at the Dentist’s?
My favorite story is that of Dr. Paul Weiss—a dentist in New York State who had his golden retriever Brooke trained as a therapy dog to “calm the nerves of children who might be nervous.” As a pediatric dentist, Dr. Weiss has had plenty of experiences where kids are uncomfortable throughout a teeth cleaning. When Brooke is around, the dog can sit nearby and comfort the child until they’re finished. He brings Brooke into the office every Thursday (Brooke Day on the dentist’s website) and kids have responded well to their furry friend.
Of course, If you have been to our office in Colorado Springs, you have seen my two therapy dogs; Copper and Dillon. Most of my patients welcome my pups to alleviate and stress they may feel during a procedure. We were one of the first office to employ therapy dogs in Colorado.
Copper & Dillon
Not every dog is automatically a ‘therapy dog,’ by the way—they must go through various training to become officially certified. Would you welcome a therapy animal during your doctor or dental visit? Why or why not?
Dr. Joe Rota is a leading general and cosmetic dentist and the winner of eight international medals from the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry. He first opened Rota Advanced Dental Care in Colorado Springs in 1978 and has been providing excellent dental care ever since. Dr. Rota is best known for being a technological pioneer in the field and for being one of the first dentists to use therapy dogs in his office. In his spare time, Dr. Rota enjoys landscape photography, silk flower arranging, and riding his Harley.
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