Benefits of Birdie Therapy:

 

• Reduced anxiety, grief and isolation. 

• Reduced blood pressure, depression, and risk of heart attack or stroke. 

• Improved willingness to be involved in a therapeutic program or group activity. 

• Increased trust, empathy and teamwork.

• Increased self-esteem and ability to care for oneself.

• Improve social, emotional, or cognitive functioning.

• Animals can be useful for educational and motivational effectiveness for participants.

 

There is a strong bond between animals and people. Animals are accepting,

non-threatening and non-judgmental, making it easier for people to open up.  

 

Because many people enjoy working with animals, animal-assisted therapy can be particularly beneficial for individuals who are resistant to treatment or have difficulty accessing their emotions or expressing themselves in talk therapy.

 

Touch between a human and Rico can have therapeutic benefits for both species.  In humans, petting an animal can trigger the release of the bonding hormone oxytocin, lowering your heart rate and blood pressure.

 

Rico is trained to provide affection and comfort to people.  He is not an assistance or service animal.