The benefits of postpartum pet therapy

The benefits of postpartum pet therapy

Pet therapy, also known as animal-assisted therapy, is a type of therapy that involves the use of animals as a form of treatment to improve physical, emotional, and social well-being. 

Pet therapy has been shown to have many potential benefits for postpartum women, including:

1. Reducing stress and anxiety: Interacting with animals has been shown to reduce stress and anxiety levels in people. For postpartum women, who may be experiencing high levels of stress and anxiety due to the demands of caring for a newborn and adjusting to new motherhood, pet therapy can be an effective way to relax and de-stress.

2. Improving mood: Pet therapy has been shown to improve mood and reduce feelings of depression and loneliness. This can be especially beneficial for postpartum women, who may be experiencing feelings of isolation and loneliness due to the demands of caring for a newborn.

3. Promoting physical activity: Pet therapy can encourage postpartum women to engage in physical activity, which can be beneficial for both physical and mental health. For example, walking a dog or playing with a cat can provide gentle, low-impact exercise that can help postpartum women regain strength and improve their overall health and well-being.

4. Providing social support: Pet therapy can provide a sense of social support and connection for postpartum women, who may be feeling isolated and disconnected from their usual social network due to the demands of caring for a newborn.

Overall, pet therapy can be a helpful and enjoyable way for postpartum women to improve their physical and mental health, and to cope with the demands of new motherhood.