Since the beginning of the time, humans and the dog they have enjoyed the benefits of a special link and emotional connection. However, it was not until the 19th century when humans began to think of the therapeutic benefits that could arise from interacting with one another.
The first man to create an institution dedicated to animal-human therapy was Willam Tuke, founder of the Centre for rehabilitation of York. His main goal was to provide innovative therapies based on the internal contact of interns with animals (such as chickens and rabbits) of which he was both responsible for. This was the first institution to create the groundwork in this field and provide examples of how animals can improve the quality of life of people living in nursing homes, hospitals or even prisons.
In these type of facilities, life and daily activities tend to be very controlled consequently affecting inmates and leading them to feel depressed and isolated. General contact with animals is a good remedy against these negative emotions and its benefits have been widely demonstrated. We invite you to consider animals as something more than man’s pet or best friend. They can be powerful creatures with the power to heal.
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