Dec 06 2008
Being Bipolar: Pets as therapy?
I honestly believe it is therapeutic for someone with a mental illness to have a pet. I have two dogs and three cats and sometimes they can calm me down quicker than anything else can.
My two dogs seem to sense when I am having a bad day. The oldest one will be extra loving and willing to allow me to hug her without protest. The new pup is so full of energy and excitement that it is hard not to laugh at his antics.
At times they provide a distraction but there are times when it’s much more than that. My dogs love me no matter what. They don’t care that I am grouchy or having an off day. They don’t mind when I want to lie around in my pajamas for hours. In fact, they’re happy to snuggle up with me.
My cats are typical cats. They’re not much on being picked up and loved on but sometimes it is nice just to run my hands over their silky coats. I enjoy watching them play and interact with each other.
I know that many of my days would be much longer without the company of my fur babies. I’m sure there are many others who feel the same way. Do you have pets who brighten your day?
I was just thinking this morning as I was playing with my dog about how much he has changed my life. I got him about three years after I was diagnosed. He is a one woman dog and loves to snuggle. So when my family goes off to work or school he is my constant companion. No one can give unconditional love like a dog.
My cats are sweet too and cuddly and seem to know when I am having a bad day. I firmly believe that pets are great therapy and my bad days would be much darker without my furry friends.
I am glad you have pets to keep you company.
Cats
Phileo has been with me 12 years now, even flew to the United States with me! He loved it, a big adventure for him. I’ve read in psychology reports cats are indeed relaxing for us - I just hope we’re relaxing for them!!
Aren’t they such a delight? I taught my oldest dog to “hug”. She will put her head on my shoulder and lean on me and I will put my arms around her and hug her. I can tell her to give me a hug and she will but sometimes when I am having a bad day, she will just start giving me hugs. It always makes me feel better.
I got the oldest dog when my youngest child started school. I had kids at home for so many years that I didn’t know what I would do all by myself. It’s really great to have the dogs at home with me. I don’t feel like I am alone and my oldest dog seems to understand every word I say.
Well, if both of us are seeing the benefits of having pets then I would say it is therapeutic.
Wow, moonsilk! My oldest dog gets all jittery from riding too long. No way I could get her to fly! But, our vet says she has a nervous condition. My family says it’s appropriate that I have a dog with a nervous condition. lol