Every year on October 4, we celebrate World Animal Day. The holiday was originally established to commemorate Francis of Assisi, and now aims to draw public attention to the plight of the homeless and suffering animals. On a day celebrated by ecological or vegetarian groups, it is good to pay attention to the benefits that animals provide to humans. It turns out that the role of animals in our mental health can be beneficial. Therapy with animals, also known as zootherapy or animal therapy, is becoming increasingly popular. Human-animal contact can be used both as a preventive measure for mental problems and as an element of therapy itself. This interaction is useful in cases of, among others: depression, anxiety disorders, schizophrenia. They have beneficial effects on human somatic health and function of the elderly.

Positive effects of animal-assisted therapy

Among the therapy methods involving animals, the most popular is dog therapy. The fact that dogs are easy to tame makes it easy to create a supportive relationship with them in therapy. Horses, donkeys, dolphins and even aquarium fish are also used in animal therapy.

Zootherapy has a positive effect on the social contacts of a person with mental disorders. Thanks to patients’ interactions with animals, they no longer feel afraid when it comes to other people and new life situations. Animal-assisted therapy is a good option for seniors. This not only reduces loneliness in elderly people, but also improves their physical health.

The positive effects of therapy with animals exceed those obtained in traditional psychotherapy processes. It is not temporary. People who have close relationships with animals have a lower risk of developing cardiovascular disease. They have a greater chance of surviving a heart attack. Pet owners are less exposed to stress and its negative consequences.

Animals can be true friends of humans, not only loyal and cheerful, but also supportive in difficult situations and conditions. On World Animal Day, it is good for us to remember this and contribute to the important role animals play in human life.