De-Stress Hour: Therapeutic Interaction with Bunnies and Dogs
This is what most people think of when they hear about animal therapy programs. We use this widely at Lavender’s Refuge. Individuals are given a bunny or dog to snuggle/pet/play with for one hour. Petting an animal reduces stress, anxiety and depression. It is proven to lower stress hormones like cortisol and increases good hormones like oxytocin.
The Resilience of Animals Versus the Complexity of Human Emotion
Animals are remarkably resilient and determined, acting primarily out of a necessity for survival rather than being guided by emotions. For instance, if an animal sustains an injury, loses a limb, or even becomes blind, it adeptly adapts to its new limitations to continue thriving.
In contrast, human emotions can sometimes cloud judgment, hindering the ability to move forward and effectively cope with challenges. This divergence in behavior becomes particularly evident during difficult life circumstances, such as illness or physical limitations.
In our animal therapy programs, we draw upon the tenacity of animals to help individuals discover their inner strength and resilience. By observing how animals face and adapt to adversities, we inspire participants to cultivate their determination in the face of life’s challenges.
Leveraging Animal Traits to Navigate “Big Emotions”
Each animal exhibits unique traits that can be harnessed to help individuals respond to their “Big Emotions” in a more constructive manner. Often, I encourage children to research their favorite animals, fostering discussions on how these creatures might react in various situations.
The traits of certain animals are not solely important for training purposes; they also play a crucial role in establishing a bond between the animal and its person, especially in emotional support contexts. Here are some examples:
1. **Hamsters** – Thrive when they feel safe.
2. **Horses** – Respond well to trust, making them excellent partners in emotional support.
3. **Bunnies** – Benefit from desensitization and exposure therapy to cope with challenges.
4. **Dogs** – Exhibit loyalty and obedience, which can provide a reliable source of comfort.
5. **Cats** – Value their independence, offering lessons in self-reliance and boundaries.
6. **Birds** – Display diverse social behaviors, which I leverage in teaching conflict resolution and interaction with those who may be different.
7. **Reptiles** – Shed their skin, symbolizing transformation and growth.
Through these traits, I facilitate conversations about healthy emotional responses during our animal therapy programs. By exploring these connections, participants can better understand their own feelings and find effective strategies to cope with life’s challenges.
The Sensory Pocket:
A Calming Tool with Mary the Jersey Wooly
Meet Mary, our adorable Jersey Wooly rabbit, known for her exceptionally soft wool. In our efforts to support children with sensory and anxiety challenges, we have created what we call a "sensory pocket."
Each sensory pocket consists of a ziplock bag filled with Mary’s plush fur. When children are not at Lavender's Refuge and find themselves feeling overwhelmed, they can turn to their sensory pocket. By gently petting Mary’s fur, they can evoke the calming effect similar to that of actually interacting with a bunny.
The goal of this initiative is to provide a comforting tool that helps children manage their emotions and navigate their feelings more effectively