The Healing Power of Animals For over twenty-five years, Hand in Paw has improved the health and well-being of individuals through visits with Animal- Assisted Therapy Teams. Animals have a keen sensitivity to human emotion and have the capacity to provide comfort through gentle interactions that provide a myriad of benefits. The simple act of petting an animal creates an automatic relaxation response by lowering heart rate, decreasing blood pressure, and providing a sense of calm and comfort. HIP Therapy Teams provide therapeutic visits in a variety of settings including hospitals, nursing homes, universities, and early intervention organizations. Animal- Assisted Therapy and Animal Assisted Activities are two methods HIP teams utilize to enhance health and wellness and reduce stress.
For over twenty-five years, Hand in Paw has improved the health and well-being of individuals through visits with Animal- Assisted Therapy Teams. Animals have a keen sensitivity to human emotion and have the capacity to provide comfort through gentle interactions that provide a myriad of benefits. The simple act of petting an animal creates an automatic relaxation response by lowering heart rate, decreasing blood pressure, and providing a sense of calm and comfort.
HIP Therapy Teams provide therapeutic visits in a variety of settings including hospitals, nursing homes, universities, and early intervention organizations. Animal- Assisted Therapy and Animal Assisted Activities are two methods HIP teams utilize to enhance health and wellness and reduce stress.
Animal- Assisted Therapy (AAT) is a therapeutic intervention directed by a health care professional - treatment goals and progress are monitored and documented over a period of time.
Animal- Assisted Activities (AAA) are more informal and do not require the direction of a health care professional. Specific treatment goals are not planned for AAA visits; however, they provide opportunities to enhance quality of life while creating positive emotions.