Animal Assisted Wellness is a therapeutic approach
that involves the interaction
between humans and animals to promote physical, emotional, and psychological
well-being. Through various activities and exercises, individuals can
experience reduced stress, increased relaxation, improved mood, and enhanced
communication skills.

 In these programs and activities, animals such as horses, donkeys, pigs, chickens, ducks, goats, sheep, dogs, cats, and even smaller creatures like rabbits and
guinea pigs play a vital role in the healing process.  The animals are paired with people seeking
help for various reasons and will help to facilitate recovery. 

Stress reduction: Interacting with animals has been
shown to reduce stress levels and lower cortisol (a stress hormone) production,
leading to a sense of calm and relaxation.

Improved Mood: The presence of animals often triggers the release of
feel-good chemicals in the brain, such as oxytocin and serotonin, which can
lead to an improved mood and decreased feelings of sadness or anxiety.

Enhance Emotional Wellbeing: Animal interactions can boost emotional
well-being, promoting feelings of happiness, contentment, and a sense of
belonging.

Increased social interaction:  Animal-assisted wellness can facilitate
social connections, improve communication skills, and reduce feelings of
loneliness or isolation.

Mindfullness: Interacting with animals encourages mindfulness, helping
individuals stay present in the moment and promoting self-awareness.

Improved Physical Health: Engaging with animals can lead to physical
benefits such as lower blood pressure, improved cardiovascular health, and
increased physical activity.

Empathy and compassion: Interacting with animals
fosters empathy, nurturing compassion for both animals and fellow humans.

Alleviation of anxiety:  Animal-assisted
wellness can reduce symptoms of anxiety and can be particularly effective for
those with generalized anxiety disorder or social anxiety.

Pain management: For individuals dealing with chronic pain, the presence of
animals and their therapeutic touch can contribute to pain relief and increased
pain tolerance.

Animal assisted wellness draws upon the unique bond between humans and animals to provide comfort, support, and a sense of connection,
ultimately contributing to overall wellness and mental health at any stage in life.  Introducing this practice early can teach valuable coping mechanisms, but it is equally beneficial later in life. Individuals of all ages, from early childhood to seniors, can participate and experience its benefits.

It is not a replacement for traditional medical or
psychological treatment:  It is not a guaranteed cure for specific health conditions and it is not a form of animal
exploitation.

Its not the same for all: 
not a one-size-fits-all solution; it may not be suitable for everyone,
and the effectiveness of the practice can vary from person to person.

It is not hanging out with pets: Its not just hanging out with someone’s pet.  The animals involved in the programs are
purposefully chosen and the activities with them are structured. 

It's not therapy for pets: Many people have thought that that animal assisted wellness is something to bring their own pet to participate with, almost like a doggy daycare or a veterinary service. You do not bring your own pets, but rather you would participate in the activities with the animals who live at the farm.