Dogs and cats are both considered the best pets par excellence. Both are affectionate, capable of brightening anyone's day, and, above all, when you feel unwell or sick, they sense it and stay by your side at all times. That is why they are the best companion animals
Dogs are very intelligent animals that, once trained, help people do many things, such as guide dogs, police dogs, or army dogs. In many cases, therapy with dogs helps people overcome problems and illnesses, such as therapy with hyperactive children, in residential care facilities for minors, or with people who have problems with alcohol consumption. The Hospital 12 de Octubre conducted a research project in collaboration with the Souling Association to analyze the benefits of animal-assisted therapy in the rehabilitation of alcohol-dependent patients. The results indicate that the treatment “can be effective and contributes to overcoming the addiction.” Ras and Fox are the two dogs participating in the research. They visit the hospital once a week, joining group activities alongside patients, psychologists, psychiatrists, and trainers. The dogs perform different exercises in each session, in which they have to achieve a goal, such as hiding a toy and then finding it. They are given exercises that reflect real-life situations that patients would face in order to achieve abstinence, enabling them to avoid consuming alcohol. Gabriel Rubio, head of the hospital's psychology department, stated in comments reported by El País that the aim of the project with dogs is to “improve patients' motivation and establish bonds so that they identify with the animals and improve their understanding of their illness.” One of the activities the dogs take part in is walking them along a path filled with treats so that they do not get distracted. The aim of the activities is similar to that of the patients. To achieve this, patients must be able to apply the techniques learned in group therapy to their real lives and create new habits, behaviors, and social relationships. The Research Institute of Hospital 12 de Octubre confirmed in a press release that “the first phase has already ended; the participants have already shared their impressions, highlighting that interacting with the dogs has allowed them to realize that it is possible to act while avoiding alcohol.” They also explain that many patients have been subjected to “very complicated situations, in which they have been able to calm down and make the right decisions.” The results are proving effective, so Hospital 12 de Octubre will continue with the project in order to help patients. It is admirable that dogs, animals without the gift of speech, are capable of helping people improve many situations through their companionship and affection. Tell us what you thought of this news on social media and whether you know of any practice where dogs improve people's quality of life.
What does the therapy involve?
Therapy with dogs to help alcoholic patients
