Geriatric Psychiatry Center
Sixth Floor • Phone: 419.383.6694 • utmc.webmaster@utoledo.edu
Pet Therapy
A hospital psychiatric unit seems an unlikely place for pets, however, every other Tuesday evening through the cooperation of "Canine M.A.S.H." and its coordinator, Peggy Scholl, our patients are able to visit with pets.
The purpose of the program is to provide an opportunity for people in difficult circumstances, in physical and emotional crisis, to benefit from the presence of animals. Most research indicates that animal companionship leads to uplifting spirits for patients. Geriatric psychiatry is no exception to this theory. Holding, petting and simple grooming tasks can enhance motor skills lost through injury, disease or the aging process. This type of therapy is particularly useful in enhancing socialization and interaction. Interaction with animals may help put people back in touch with the caring, loving parts of themselves. Pets are carefully screened and supervised by hospital staff and volunteers of the "Canine M.A.S.H" unit. Patients are carefully screened for participation with close attention to allergies, fears, and cultural differences.
History of Pet Therapy
Boris Levinson, an American child psychiatrist, coined the phrase "pet therapy" in 1964 following observations he made when he began to use his dog in sessions with severely withdrawn children. The dog served as an icebreaker, softening the children's defenses and provided a focus of communication. The use of animals in treating psychological disorders dates back to the early twentieth century, however, Levinson was the first to write about the use of pet therapy and is credited with sparking the widespread research into its use in therapy.
Since that time, scientists and health care professionals have put these theories into practice in a variety of settings. Scores of research indicate that interaction with animals can significantly improve individual's physical and emotional health. Visits by animals have helped ease feelings of fear, despair, loneliness and isolation. Studies have demonstrated that petting a dog or cat, or even being in the same room, has a calming effect on people, reducing heart rate and blood pressure.