As the proud pawrent of a 5-year-old Shih Tzu, I can honestly say that he’s been my little rock in life’s ups and downs. A wagging tail, a nuzzle, or a playful bark can instantly lift my spirits. Caring for him has also brought balance to my life. He nudges me out of my work bubble and into the fresh air for our walks, where I can pause, breathe, and enjoy the world around me.
Dogs are more than just lovable companions—they are increasingly recognized as valuable contributors to mental health and emotional well-being. Interacting with dogs triggers the release of oxytocin (the love hormone) and reduces cortisol (the stress hormone) [1]. This neurochemical effect can reduce stress, lower blood pressure, and alleviate symptoms of depression, anxiety, and stress. Dogs are also incredibly attuned to human emotions and body language. Research has shown that dogs can recognize their owners’ facial expressions and read basic emotions such as anger and happiness [2]. When I’m stressed or feeling low, my dog seems to sense it instinctively, quietly lying by my side as if to say, “I’m here for you.”
As a clinical neuropsychologist, I’ve witnessed firsthand how these loyal animals can play a transformative role in therapeutic settings, providing support for individuals with neurological and psychological challenges. When I was in my training program in Sydney, a brain injury unit in a hospital involved therapy dogs in the rehabilitation process, which proved extremely beneficial for patients.
Dogs have been increasingly integrated into rehabilitation programs for individuals with neurological conditions. For individuals with cognitive decline such as dementia, therapy dogs can provide comfort and companionship, reducing agitation and improving mood. Interacting with dogs also stimulates cognitive activity, as patients may reminisce about their past experiences with pets or learn to care for the dog during sessions. Stroke survivors and individuals with traumatic brain injuries often struggle with physical impairment, cognitive issues, and emotional dysregulation. Therapy dogs can assist by motivating patients to engage in physical activities, encourage participation in intervention activities, and alleviate feelings of frustration and isolation.
Dogs are also increasingly used in therapeutic settings to support psychological interventions. Their nonjudgmental nature and ability to connect with humans on an emotional level make them ideal partners in therapy. Emotional Support Animals, including dogs, play a significant role in alleviating psychological conditions and improving daily functioning. Caring for a dog can help individuals establish routines, improve self-esteem, and combat feelings of worthlessness. For individuals struggling with social isolation, a dog’s presence provides a reliable and unconditional source of connection.
Beyond emotional support, service dogs are specially trained to assist individuals with specific conditions. For example:
• Seizure alert dogs: These dogs can detect subtle changes in behaviour or physiology that precede a seizure, providing critical warnings to their handlers.
• Guide dogs: For individuals with visual impairments, guide dogs support individuals’ mobility and independence.
• Autism assistance dogs: These dogs help autistic individuals by providing sensory support, performing “grounding” tasks such as deep pressure stimulation, and guiding the handler through crowds or disorienting elements [3].
Dogs are not just pets; they are partners in healing and recovery. Whether as therapy dogs, emotional support companions, or simply beloved pets, dogs play a unique role in helping humans navigate life’s challenges. So, here’s to dogs: the furry friends who make our world brighter, one wag at a time.
To meet with a professional psychologist or counsellor, call The Other Clinic at 8809 0659 or email us hello@theotherclinic.sg.
References:
[1] Handlin, L., Hydbring-Sandberg, E., Nilsson, A., Ejdebäck, M., Jansson, A., & Uvnäs-Moberg, K. (2011). Short-term interaction between dogs and their owners: effects on oxytocin, cortisol, insulin and heart rate—an exploratory study. Anthrozoös, 24(3), 301-315.
[2] Müller, C. A., Schmitt, K., Barber, A. L., & Huber, L. (2015). Dogs can discriminate emotional expressions of human faces. Current Biology, 25(5), 601-605.
[3] K9 Assistance – Autism Assistance Dogs. https://www.k9assistance.sg/assistance-dogs/autism-assistance-dogs