Why Pet Therapy Belongs - Brief Article

Nursing Homes, Jan, 2000 by Janice T. Rabalais

Within the last decade, pets have become increasingly popular in the United States. Many people consider their pet to be a member of the family and value its unconditional love and companionship.

The important role pets play in therapy has long been recognized, as well. Various healthcare facilities permit pet visits with their clients, and some facilities own pets, maintaining them on the facility property.

I recall an incident in the occupational therapy department of a geriatric facility. The therapists had found it difficult to persuade one client, Betty, to spend time in the department. 'When the director finally succeeded in escorting her there, Betty sat alone at a small table, obviously depressed, showing no interest in any activity offered to her. The attending physician had said that if Betty could just show some sign of emotion, even crying, that would be a sign of progress.

The OT director had made a daily habit of bringing her basset hound, Bridget, to the department. She brought her into the room where Betty sat. Betty remained silent for about 20 minutes, then lowered her head, staring at the table where she sat. Bridget, who had been sitting near three clients at a table across the room, looked toward Betty when she lowered her head. As if noting Betty's sadness, Bridget trotted over to her and laid her head on Betty's leg. Looking somewhat puzzled at Bridget's presence, Betty slowly placed her hand on Bridget's head. Bridget gently placed her right paw on her leg. As Betty looked down at Bridget, she began to cry. She then laid her head on the table and broke into sobs. Rather than pulling away from her, Bridget snuggled her head closer to Betty's lap and remained there as Betty's sobbing slowly ceased. The OT director offered Betty a tissue and sat at the table with her.

As Betty wiped away her tears, the director encouraged her to talk about her feelings. She began to verbally release some repressed emotions, while frequently stroking Bridget's head. It was apparent that she found reassurance in Bridget's presence.

After that day, Betty began attending the OT department regularly and participated in its activities. Her progress was continual, and her physician began her discharge planning during her fifth month in the facility. The physician and staff who provided Betty's care agreed that, had it not been for Bridget's "therapy," Betty's progress would not have been so remarkable. NH

Janice T. Rabalais is assistant professor in the Lamar University College of Arts and Sciences Department of Nursing, Beaumont, Texas.