Therapy Dogs

Therapy dogs can provide emotional support and easy anxiety for survivors of abuse. Whether they have been diagnosed with Complex Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, like many who have experienced ongoing trauma, or are simply seeking additional therapeutic treatments in their recovery process, many turn to service dogs for additional support.

• Greater self-sufficiency. Because the animal helps with daily tasks, medication compliance, and deeper sleep, patients have an increased ability to live alone and function independently.
• Reduced anxiety and stress, leading to fewer flashbacks and more equanimity. With a lessened need for hyper-vigilance because of the animal’s support and the patient’s increased trust, cortisol levels can return to normal for longer periods of time, improving the patient’s ability to think rationally and respond to stressful situations without losing their sense of control.
• A greater range of coping skills. This comes in part from observing the dog’s behavior and cues, and in part from being more grounded in the present moment due to the dog’s presence, playfulness, and deep, loving commitment. As survivor's become more self-sufficient and less anxious, they have an easier time implementing other aspects of their treatment protocols and opening up to accepting help from others.