The Patient Advantages of Pet Therapy Mary Pat Higley

The Patient Advantages of Pet Therapy

Pharmaceutical professional Mary Pat Higley, PharmD, works as a medical industry consultant, data analyzer, and clinical research associate in the Newport Beach, California, area. In her present roles, she applies more than 30 years of experience as a clinical pharmacist and research project manager. Outside of her professional pursuits, Mary Pat Higley, engages in therapy dog training and takes therapy dogs to long-term care facilities and children’s hospitals.

The Patient Advantages of Pet Therapy

Pet therapy (also known as animal-assisted therapy) offers proven benefits to patients confined to hospitals and care centers. Pet therapy may refer to animal-assisted therapy, in which dogs or other companion animals visit patients and help them recover from such health conditions as heart problems, cancer, and mental health disorders. Pet therapy may also refer to animal-assisted activities, in which the animals provide comfort and general enjoyment to long-term care residents.

The Patient Advantages of Pet Therapy

Studies show that pet therapy offers direct health benefits, such as lowering blood pressure and reducing patient anxiety. Both results encourage faster healing and increased quality of life. Furthermore, patients exposed to therapy animals show increased levels of endorphin and oxytocin. The release of these natural substances increases happiness and boosts empathy in people, offering numerous psychological benefits.