IT has been said that the best therapist is one with a furry face and wagging tail.
Much has been written about how animals can help humans cope with trauma, anxiety and stress.
Those of us who have pets would recognise the unique ability that animals have to understand our moods and respond accordingly.
Dogs, for example, who see their owners in emotional distress, will instinctively try to lick their faces to offer comfort.
Humans have always been aware of the healing power of animals. The ancient Greeks were believed to have used horses to improve the wellbeing of ailing individuals.
Meanwhile, Florence Nightingale, the founder of modern nursing, was among the early healthcare practitioners to realise the benefits that animals bring to human health.
She observed that the presence of small pets could help reduce anxiety among those being treated at psychiatric institutions.
The term animal-assisted therapy (AAT), however, is widely credited to American psychologist Dr Boris Levinson, who laid the groundwork for pet therapy with his research in the early 1960s.
While AAT is widely utilised overseas in various settings, from dealing with special needs children to offering emotional support to cancer patients, its usage in Malaysia remains limited.
AAT can be utilised in various capacities across multiple areas addressing physical, emotional, psychological and social needs, explains veterinarian Dr Suriya Kumari Ramiah.
"People of any age would benefit from interacting with animals in a psychotherapy setting."
Dogs are generally the preferred animal for therapy due to their exceptional bond with humans, she adds.
Dogs are loyal companions and have unique social skills with humans, but Dr Suriya says we should also channel resources into studying possible applications of AAT using other animals such as rabbits, hamsters, chickens and guinea pigs.
"Animals possess a sensitivity to our emotional state and are able to interpret our social cues. More importantly, they are not judgemental, accept us for the way we are and provide unconditional love."
BENEFITS FOR CHILDREN
Dr Suriya says implementing animal-assisted activities in a special education environment can be especially exciting for students. It can also be a motivator for them to pick up reading and writing, and participate in school activities.
It can help these students to behave and be more attentive.
AAT programmes are important for children with special needs because they provide a unique and effective approach to addressing a wide range of developmental, emotional and behavioural challenges, says special education teacher Jeevithan Selvakumaran.
The benefits are far-reaching and can complement traditional therapies and educational interventions, adds Jeevithan, who is also secretary of the Integrated Special Education Programme at SK Serdang.
"Animals provide unconditional love and companionship, which can help students feel more secure and reduce anxiety, especially for those with autism spectrum disorders."
Interacting with animals will also encourage communication and help these children develop important social skills.
Children with special needs, such as those on the autism spectrum, often have difficulties with social interaction.
Jeevithan says therapy animals can serve as a "bridge" for these students, encouraging them to engage in social behaviour like making eye contact, speaking, or responding to others. This translates to better relationships with peers and adults.
When children learn to care for animals, they also develop empathy and kindness.
The calming effect of therapy animals can also reduce aggressive or hyperactive behaviour among students with ADHD, autism, or conduct disorders and this leads to better classroom behaviour and more positive interactions with teachers and peers.
Jeevithan says impulse control also improves among special needs children as interacting with animals teaches them patience and the need to manage their impulses as animals respond better to calm, controlled behaviour.
Those struggling with speech and language difficulties, meanwhile, find that interacting with a therapy animal can stimulate both verbal and non-verbal communication.
"Such children may feel less pressure when communicating with an animal, which can encourage them to practise speech, make requests, or give commands."
AAT programmes are vital for students with special needs, adds Jeevithan.
They address multiple areas of development — emotional, social, cognitive and physical in a way that is engaging, supportive and tailored to the individual
AAT — How It Works
AAT may improve rehabilitation outcomes by reducing:
• response to unpleasant stimuli
• anxiety
• depression and distress fatigue
• confusion
• tension and agitation
• self-consciousness and awareness of body limitations
AAT also motivates patients to participate and engage in therapy sessions, as well as interact and communicate during and following therapy sessions. It builds up self-confidence and self-esteem, and improves well-being and quality of life.
Animal-Assisted Therapy and Children
Interactive Play
Engaging students in games with animals which enhance communication and cooperation.
Reading to Animals
This helps improve literacy skills in a non-judgemental environment.
Goal-Oriented Tasks
Setting specific objectives related to animal care that help develop responsibility and nuture skills.
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