No matter the animal, from dogs to birds, they can be extremely useful at enabling Neurodivergent people to find comfort and independence when in social, overwhelming or triggering situations. In this article, we’ll explore the transformative impact of support pets on Neurodivergent individuals, from specially trained service animals to therapy companions and emotional support animals.
Service Animals
The most common types of support pets are service animals. As they are specifically trained in the areas which fit best for one specific owner. Most service animals are dogs, due to the ease of training them. Service animals tend to use specific breeds such as Labradors, poodles and German shepherds, but any breed can become a service animal if they complete the specialised training tailored to the specific neurological condition or brain type of their owner.
During their training, they will be taught how to help their owner if they recognise discomfort, prevent the owner from self-harming or harming others, reduce anxiety with techniques such as laying across the owner’s lap, and many other techniques for them to use in their owner’s best interest. Service animals are widely allowed in public places where usual pets are not, to make sure they are always protecting their owner from any potential harm.
Therapy Animals
Another way support pets are used for the best interest of Neurodivergent people is as therapy animals. Therapy animals tend to be found in schools, offices, medical practises and therapy offices. They are useful to allow Neurodivergent people who don’t fit the criteria for a service dog to be able to get the support they need. Therapy animals can be any classification of animal, from cats and dogs to birds and rats. Unlike service animals, they do not have permission to enter all public places, however, they must be trained to make sure they can effectively help Neurodivergent people as well. Therapy animals are used to make socialising easier; help reduce anxiety and help make therapy sessions more effective. The therapy animals can trigger the release of endorphins which increases the production of serotonin making the individual feel calmer and more relaxed.
Household Pet
Having a household pet, in general, can also be beneficial to Neurodivergent people, as pets such as dogs require walks to look after their physical health. They can also be used to help build social skills, grow in empathy, and learn how to be responsible for looking after something. Having a pet can also help to create a routine in day-to-day life through body-doubling which may be difficult for some Neurodivergent people.
Conclusion
Emotional support animals are used to aid neurotypical people through stressful situations. They are typically pets that have been trained when a professional has certified that the owner requires a support animal for their well-being. An emotional support animal can be any species that is able to provide their owner with the benefit of being able to self-soothe, encourage social situations, and help lower anxiety in big social situations. With the correct documentation, emotional support animals are allowed in social settings with their owner, however, there are limited places where they are allowed, unlike service animals.
Is there an animal that holds a special place in your heart? Our team is always open to lovely pet pics so feel free to send them our way!
