Zootherapy
by Nicole St-Jean
Recently, I went to a CHSLD to visit ataxic persons. Upon arriving in the room, I saw that I was not alone. A stranger and his dog were present. It was the time for zootherapy.
The residents were all smiling and I admit that I too found this very pleasant. I started a discussion with the stranger who proved to be the therapist. His explained to me that this animal, besides being a pet, played a role of being an agent of stimulation, motivation and reinforcement for physically handicapped persons, among others. “Just the act of stroking the animal, to take his paw ........ the totality of these little gestures requires a muscular effort which the persons would not normally make. The animal will be used according to the goal which one desires to attain. Is one seeking to arouse reactions which will maintain deportment, or which will bring an improvement of cognitive, physical, psychosocial or emotional potential ? This activity is much appreciated for it furthers communication and the socialization of groups disturbed by their physical and psychological handicap.”
The workers have training in a field of the humanities, in health or in education. A complementary training is also offered in animal behaviour. As for the animal, he must meet numerous criteria for selection, and also follow a specific training.
One thing is certain, by the number of smiles and laughs which this provoked, everything leads one to believe that zootherapy, besides being pleasant, breaks the state of solitude in which some find themselves.
Find out about it at your CHSLD in order to obtain the service or urge the persons in charge by contacting Zootherapy Quebec at (514) 279-4747.