It is said that the state of the patient’s disposition defines their choice to fight the sickness, essentially willing their bodies to heal. In cases of severe sickness of a family member, members who have to deal with their individual frustrations about the situation draw strength from the patient. In essence, the patients state of mind is critical to the healing process of both them and their loved ones.

To aid medications, hospitals and specialists have recommended the patient and family receive therapy sessions by way of pet therapy. Whether confined in a hospital or at home remarkable observations have been made when “Doctor Pets” make their rounds for a whole lot of hugging and gentle loving. Most pets allowed on hospital grounds are bunnies or dogs. In nursing homes, cats are favored together with dogs and bunnies as well as tranquil fishes in bowls.

When diagnosed with an irreversible disability, debilitating disease or a terminal illness, the patient’s condition is worsened by the knowledge of the limitations they are confined to. Even if physicians keep the dire prognosis from the patient and just tell the family, the one inflicted is bound to know. Since the ravage of their body by the sickness often gives patients pain beyond description. Surprisingly a normal heart rate and lower blood pressure are physiological results of encounters with pets. Patients who interact with the pets have a certain glow in their faces and seem to smile more frequently. Experts connect a pets’ affectionate playfulness that gives the patient a chance to come out from their shell.

Experiencing utter discomfort in spite of available therapeutic drugs clues the patient on the extent of their illness. Not being able to do the things people around them do, leave the patient in a state of depression and anxiety. It is in the state of resignation of their fate, when patients give up the fight. All hope for a miracle is out the window, pushed away by the unexplainable aches from within the body. However, people with irreversible disabilities gain confidence once given pets to care for. The non-judgmental way of pets and their ability to give silent assurance to the patient are reasons why doctors recommend this therapy. It has been known for years that your mind is an extremely powerful tool when fighting disease and sickness. A strong-minded person is more apt to recover from certain ailments. By providing pet therapy doctors are treating the psyche of the patient and thus treating the disease.

For young patients suffering from terminal diseases such as cancer, leukemia and lupus; smiling is confined to times of lucidity from the numerous pain relievers working their way in their blood stream. Though the pain of the sickness still exists and the symptoms may become worse; a positive environment through their experience with the pets allows for a not so lonely road to improvement and recovery. Pets are truly amazing creatures and their unconditional love can spark a light even in the deep darkness of terminal illnesses. If you or loved one are sick, consider pet therapy as part of your healing process.

This article is brought to you by Pet Super Store a site featuring dog ramps, dog training collars and other pet accessories.

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This entry was posted on Tuesday, July 31st, 2007 at 8:43 pm and is filed under Pets General. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.