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Pet "Therapy" Helps With Mental Illness
Cats, dogs and other animals can now be licensed as service animals for many purposes, including helping people who have mental illnesses. And pets don't have to be licensed to help people with bipolar disorder and other conditions live better lives. Here is some information, plus stories from everyday people whose pets help them cope with bipolar disorder.
The Cats Who Saved My Life: An Alternative Treatment for Depression
Long-time About Bipolar Disorder Volunteer Joy tells how foster parenting a kitten (or puppy) can be true treatment for bipolar depression, as well as providing a surprisingly easy way for animal lovers who have been withdrawn to easy back into society by finding the company of people who share their feelings.
Service Dogs for Bipolar Disorder
Can those with psychiatric disorders such as bipolar disorder or depression benefit from interaction with animals? The answer is a resounding, YES! Not only can those with bipolar disorder benefit from the love of and for a pet, but they are also permitted under the Americans with Disabilities Act to employ the assistance of a service dog.
My pets help me cope with my bipolar disorder
Pet therapy isn't a new concept, but it's receiving more attention these days. Here, people who have bipolar disorder tell how their cats, dogs and other pets help them cope with the mental illness in their daily lives.
Cat Therapy for Austistic Children
A true story of how a cat made the first breakthrough for a withdrawn boy with autism.
The Human-Animal Bond
Veterinarian Janet Crosby writes about the beneficial effects of pets, with in-depth information about various types of animals and pet therapy information.
Qualifying Service Animals
About Disabilities Guide Charlotte Gerber writes about how pets can qualify as service animals under the Americans with Disabilities Act.
