20 Unexpected Therapy Animals That Are Doctor-Approved

Imagine that you’re at the doctor’s office for a checkup. After talking about your health, they suggest adding animal-assisted therapy to your routine. You might initially be taken aback, skeptically raising an eyebrow: “You’re prescribing me a what? A guinea pig?”

Engaging with animals has been proven to have significant therapeutic benefits. Using animals in therapeutic settings is a method designed to enhance an individual’s social, emotional, or cognitive behavior. Various animals are often incorporated in these initiatives that have been remarkably trained to aid in the healing and well-being of different types of patients.

Dogs

Man’s best friend, dogs have long been a source of companionship and empathy. They are often used as service animals due to their highly trainable nature and ability to form strong bonds with humans. In animal-assisted therapy, dogs can be beneficial in helping to reduce stress, anxiety, and depression. Their eager-to-please temperament makes them excellent therapy animals for people of all ages, particularly seniors seeking comfort and emotional connection.

Horses

Equine-assisted therapy employs horses due to their ability to respond to human emotions and their need for focused care. This characteristic helps people who are dealing with issues related to trust, boundaries, and impulse control. Patients heal by goal-focused engagement with these kind creatures.

Dolphins

Dolphins are celebrated for their intelligence and empathy. In a branch of animal-assisted therapy known as dolphin assisted therapy (DAT), these mindfully nurturing creatures help people with various emotional and physical conditions. Their social interaction can significantly reduce stress and anxiety, while dolphin sonar waves can reportedly improve body functions.

Rabbits

Rabbits are commonly used in therapy due to their soft fur and calm demeanor, which creates a soothing atmosphere. They are a delightful choice for people dealing with stress, anxiety, depression, and sensory processing issues. 

Cats

Cats are known to have a calming effect on people. Their purring, the act of petting them, and their friendly nature can help reduce stress, while their soft fur and warm presence can help soothe anxious and lonely feelings. Cats are perfect for people in long-term care who to want feel a bond with an animal.

Fish

While fish cannot be physically handled like cats or rabbits, their therapeutic value lies in the tranquility they offer. Watching them glide around in their watery habitats decreases stress, lowers blood pressure, and fosters feelings of peace and calm. Fish tanks in medical facilities or private homes provide an appealing distraction from pain or discomfort.

Alpacas

Often found at caregiving facilities and schools, alpacas are becoming increasingly popular in the field of animal-assisted therapy. These gentle and sensitive creatures are particularly effective in improving social skills, reducing anxiety and feelings of isolation. Their soft fur and calm demeanor provide a relaxing, tactile experience for those involved in the session. 

Miniature Pigs

Miniature pigs, also known as teacup pigs, are charming animals often used in therapy. Their small size and gentle nature make them ideal therapy pets, particularly for older people. Caring for these little creatures can require some effort, but the comfort and companionship they offer in return is unparalleled. Scientific studies suggest that interaction with miniature pigs can lower blood pressure, reduce stress levels, and boost mood, making them highly beneficial for therapeutic purposes.

Goats

Imagine having a therapy session with a goat? As bizarre as it might sound, goats are becoming part of the animal-assisted therapy scene. These animals are known for their fun-loving, curious, and vivacious characters. Their natural tendency to want to interact, enjoy being petted, and respond positively to human contact makes them perfect for reducing stress and anxiety. Engaging with them can bring fun and laughter, completely changing the environment of a facility. Not only can their presence help ward off loneliness, but it can also act as a great conversation starter among people. 

Donkeys

Donkeys are well-known for their calming effect and patient nature. They are frequently used in animal-assisted therapy, especially for individuals dealing with mental health disorders such as anxiety and depression. The soothing presence of these gentle creatures can significantly contribute to the improvement of a patient’s emotional state. Engaging with donkeys encourages the development of empathy, responsibility, and social skills.

Chickens

Chicken therapy might sound unusual, but it’s undoubtedly effective. Chickens are found to be soothing and their predictable daily rhythms can provide comfort and a sense of stability to the elderly. They offer companionship and entertainment, making them excellent for those prone to isolation or boredom. Therapeutic interaction with chickens can add a sense of purpose, improve social interaction, and even introduce an element of nostalgia for those who come from a farming background.

Mice

Believe it or not, mice find a spot in the therapy pet list, too. They are not only entertaining to watch but also gentle and friendly, nurturing a sense of companionship in humans. They can assist in developing fine motor skills, as handling them requires careful, delicate movements. Mice are particularly beneficial for children, helping to teach responsibility, empathy, and compassion, but a mouse’s comforting presence can be a source of peace for people of all ages. 

Ferrets

Ferrets, with their playful and curious nature, can be surprisingly therapeutic. They are interactive animals that enjoy being handled, which can give a much-needed mood boost to individuals who may be feeling down. Due to their diminutive size, they are particularly good for indoor environments or where space may be limited. Ferrets can provide comfort, joy and assist in alleviating symptoms of depression and anxiety. 

Guinea Pigs

Guinea Pigs, with their calm demeanors and smal size, make perfect companions for therapy sessions. They are easy to handle, don’t impose any threat, and respond positively to interactions, promoting physical, social, and cognitive benefits. A session involving petting or grooming a guinea pig can reduce stress levels and promote relaxation among senior individuals.

Butterflies

Butterflies create a serene, soothing atmosphere that works wonders for patients undergoing stress and anxiety issues. Their gentle flight and vibrant colors are quite engaging. These delicate creatures are the perfect companions for individuals who need to just sit back and admire the beauty of nature without much physical intervention, making them perfect for palliative care settings. Their role in encouraging concentration and mindfulness has been acknowledged by many experts in animal-assisted therapy.

Parrots

Known for their distinct ability to mimic human speech, parrots often play a vital role in animal-assisted therapy. With their vibrant colors and entertaining personalities, they bring a sense of joy and companionship that can brighten anyone’s day. Parrot therapy has been found particularly helpful for individuals struggling with communication disabilities, cognitive impairments, and mental health conditions like depression and anxiety. Additionally, their long lifespan allows for lasting bonds to develop, further enriching the therapeutic experience.

15 Everyday Scents That Cats Can’t Stand

15 Everyday Scents That Cats Can’t Stand