HIP Heals

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.

• A Physical Therapist incorporates brushing a dog’s fur, grasping small treats, or walking alongside a dog to improve fine motor skills and joint movement in patients.
• A Speech Therapist may work with a child and a Therapy Team by asking the child to verbalize cues for a Therapy dog to sit, stay, fetch, etc.

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.

• Therapy Teams visit with nursing home residents to reduce loneliness and encourage socialization.
• HIP Teams visit colleges and businesses in Birmingham and Tuscaloosa to boost morale and provide stress relief and reduce anxiety.

A part of the HIP Heals program, Wags for Wellness is a restorative wellness initiative that we created in collaboration with UAB Hospital to express our gratitude and respect for the healthcare community that took care of all of us during the pandemic and continues to do so today.

These individuals often experience significant stress, anxiety, and even PTSD due to the nature of their work. Our specially trained Therapy Teams provide Animal-Assisted Therapy, offering comfort, reducing stress, and promoting emotional well-being. We expanded the program to include more healthcare facilities, fire and police departments, as well as other workplaces.

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