Would you be surprised to learn that more and more health professionals are turning to support animals to treat their patients? It has long been known that dogs are man’s best friend. Dogs are incredibly loyal and they’ll remain by the patient’s side for the long haul. What many people do not know is that service animals can provide comfort and relief from one’s mental anguish. It is very easy to register emotional support animal and many patients around the world have begun encouraging their patients to do so. Below, you’ll learn how these animals can be beneficial for patients with mental disorders.
Calming Effects
It is no secret that dogs are capable of calming their owners. When something is wrong, the dog will immediately recognize the problem and they’ll attempt to comfort their owner. The dog’s presence has been proven to be able to neutralize stress and anxiety. Some patients will experience euphoria by petting the dog and this can help take their mind off of their stressors and anxieties. Even better is the fact that the process to register dog as emotional support animal is quick and simplistic. This makes it possible for anyone to turn their ordinary dog into an effective medical aid.
No Side Effects
Before trying to learn how to get approved for an emotional support animal, you should know that dogs are a great alternative to pharmaceutical drugs. Over the past few years, medical professionals have been accused of prescribing drugs far too frequently. Although these drugs can provide patients with relief, they’re truly a double-edged sword. The mass majority of pharmaceuticals come with negative side effects and many are incredibly addictive. This is not the case with the emotional support animal. This form of relief will be by your side for the long run, will provide you with relief, and will not have any negative side effects whatsoever.
Can Be Used Anywhere
When consuming pharmaceutical drugs to combat your illness, you may experience mind altering side effects. This can make it impossible to drive or work, after taking your medication. Alternatively, the service dog can be used anywhere, without any repercussions whatsoever. In fact, there are laws that protect support animals and their owners. Landlords cannot deny you service due to the presence of your dog. And, the major airlines are required to accommodate those that are accompanied by service animals. No matter where you want to go or what you want to do, you’ll be able to take your dog with you.
Healthy And Active
Animals are just like humans, in the sense that they require a substantial amount of physical activity. Staying active reduces your risk of heart disease and also curbs obesity. It is highly recommended by all medical professionals to stay active. With this being said, veterinarians also recommend the same for all animals. Physical activity also offers mental and emotional benefits, boosting dopamine production. Dopamine is responsible for regulating human emotional responses and movement. Schedule a good time for you to take your ESA for walks, doing it twice a day will offer a long list of benefits for everyone involved.
Image credit: CC by University of Liverpool Faculty of Health & Life Sciences
