SALT LAKE CITY (KUTV) — With Mental Health Awareness month winding down, we decided to focus on a story about unconditional love and support for those who may be suffering from a mental health issue like anxiety, loneliness, or depression.
As always, we recommend counseling, but there is something else you can add to the mix that might help.
Studies show that pets can make a big difference for people who are struggling with mental health issues.
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“Dogs and cats offer a different kind of therapy,” Patrick Theobald at the Best Friends Pet Adoption Center in Sugarhouse said. “They provide a level of companionship and comfort that is unmatched. Every time you come home, that animal is happy to see you, no questions asked.”
Patrick also said that there is some science that shows pets can have a calming influence on their owners.
“There have been a lot of studies that show even petting a cat or a dog, talking to them, and stroking their fur can lower blood pressure and lower your heart rate,” he said.
During our visit to the shelter, we met a lot of great dogs and cats just waiting to be adopted. Norman, a bulldog mix, made friends with us immediately. He is a thick, husky dog, but is very playful and has a heart of gold.
Patrick said they work hard to make sure a new pet will be a good match for both the pet and the owner.
“We always want to talk to people about what they are looking for and make sure that we can match them with a pet who will be a good fit for them long term,” Patrick said.
A visit to the shelter just might help you find that new lifelong companion and a part-time therapist as well. Patrick says, “If you are struggling with mental health or not, just coming into the shelter with the cats, dogs, kittens, puppies, and spending a little time with them, it’s a great experience. It always boosts my mood when I come in.”
The shelter also offers an “Adventure Buddy” program where you can adopt a dog or cat for an entire afternoon. You could go for a run, play in the park, or just hang out and relax for the day. It might be just what the doctor ordered.
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