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The
inclusion of pets into hospital and rehabilitation environments has long been
considered very therapeutic, and pets continue to be an important part of life
long after rehabilitation has ended.
In
addition to filling lonely hours with companionship, pets can be trained, much
like the more familiar Seeing Eye dogs, to perform tasks and assist persons with
disabilities in many different ways.
The
responsibility for pet care can enhance cognitive functioning in ways that are
more subtle and enjoyable than traditional therapies. Fun activities often
stimulate individuals with low motivation in ways that are not often achieved by
sitting in front of a television set for hours on end.
Pets
are very good companions and help people feel less lonely. They also respond
with feedback which can negate inappropriate behaviors, and interest in a pet
may redirect egocentricity that may arise from frontal lobe deficits.
Selecting a pet can be turned into a cognitive exercise of planning. The choice
of a pet should be fun, not fraught with discord. It’s important to consider all
options e.g. a sophisticated set up of aquariums with pumps and filters may be
too complex for some.
Pets
must be cared for, otherwise they fail to thrive. This may be a hard lesson,
possibly from time to time even cruel for the animal, but individuals with brain
injury must learn or relearn this important fact of life.
Naturally a responsible adult should intervene if the pet’s health or well-being
is adversely affected. When limitations arising from the ABI are barriers to
independently caring for a pet of choice, talk with the individual about
strategies that will enable more independence and determine what duties will be
managed by whom so responsibilities can be monitored. Almost everyone loves
animals.
This
often enhances social skills building for individuals when encountering others
in the park, neighborhoods and other places people congregate with pets. Have
you ever been able to pass without noticing or striking up a conversation with
someone sitting on a park bench with a colorful, exotic bird perched on his or
her shoulder?
Pets
are great conversation pieces. Individuals with severe brain injury and other
impairing conditions often have little control over their lives. Owning a pet
can provide an opportunity for controlling at least one facet of their lives -
their pet!
Pets
always have time for sharing with their owners and their loyalty is
indisputable. Pet therapy is a well-established routine in many hospitals,
nursing homes and rehabilitation centers.
Anecdotal accounts tell of the benefits of pets being in the presence of people
in all stages of recovery, rehabilitation and even end-stage illnesses. The
comforting and calming affect of stroking a furry animal often elicits more
relaxing facial expressions and/or postures in persons even thought to be in
minimally-responsive states.
Nonverbal individuals generally respond with contented smiles when pets are
introduced into their environment. Almost all individuals with disabilities can
take some responsibility for the care of an animal, even if it’s no more than a
daily stroking or play session.
Dogs
are frequently trained to assist individuals with brain injury, particularly
those with mobility impairments. Custom-styled saddlebags can be placed on the
dog and used for carrying personal items, wallet, daily journal and other items
needed by those using wheelchairs and/or other assisting devices that increase
mobility.
Pets
are indeed wonderful companions and can frequently impact positively even on
those for whom other therapies, exercises and/or future promise for continuing
recovery hold little interest. |