PET THERAPY AS TREATMENT FOR ANXIETY
In today’s high stress world, anywhere you go you may you may encounter a person accompanied by an animal. It has become a common occurrence, and personally I have seen it just about everywhere. These folks are using what is called a service animal which serves as the vehicle in what has become a legitimate treatment called Pet Therapy. This concept has been studied extensively and has proven effective for patients with anxiety or anxiety-associated diagnoses, and has shown benefit in inpatient, outpatient, and residential settings. I have even experienced pet therapy on airplane flights and was seated next to animals on two occasions.
Most pet therapy animals are dogs because of their inclination to cling to their master and provide comfort to the individual. They are “loyal” pets and an ideal choice because they are always happy. Cats and horses have also been used in therapy involving special situations, but are less amenable to stressful circumstances.
Doctors from a family medicine residency program in Michigan evaluated the results of numerous trials involving pet therapy treatment for anxiety. What they found was that pet therapy when prescribed for anxiety, “notably reduces self-reported anxiety across multiple age groups.” Results were documented by objective neuropsychiatric testing, in particular the “State-Trait Anxiety Inventory, consisting of 20 state questions.” Compared to control groups (no service animal) “animal-assisted therapy groups had significantly improved scores on problem behavior and neuropsychiatric inventory scales.” These folks tests for anxiety, and even depression, improved remarkably. Patients reported worrying less, feeling calmer, and feeling secure. Contentment and confidence in themselves is a result of pet therapy treatment. Not being alone and having a steady companion that is always in a good mood is beneficial to the psyche’ of those struggling for relevance.
Dr. G’s Opinion: I used to be annoyed when someone came to a gathering with a dog in their arms or on a leash. I thought they were taking advantage of a privilege I wasn’t sure they were entitled to. But I now know that service animals fulfill a need that otherwise might have required a neuropsychiatric drug to control. Having that cute little puppy, or even that huge German Shepherd, as their companion is better than taking 0.5 mg of Xanax.
References: Zawisa M, Bhatiya U, Andrew I. Pet therapy as a Treatment for Anxiety. Am Fam Phys. 2024 October;110(4):423.
AFP Clinical Answers “Does Pet Therapy improve anxiety?” Am Fam Phys August 2025;112(2):215.
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I visited the Alzheimer’s section at the facility where my father was staying with our black Lab. She was a well behaved dog and was good with the patients. We were invited back weekly or more. We became the highlight of their day. When we arrived, the patients would go to their seats in the hall to watch Cinders do her retrieving and tricks. We were their guest until my father left the facility. We returned a few times later until Cinders was not able.
Great story, Susan. I’m sure the patients loved it.