Pickle is a chiweenie (dachshund cross Chihuahua), Pickle has been coming to Kindre from 8 weeks old and has been trained with socializing here, meeting lots of young children and adults. Pickle lives at home with her big brother Patch and in a home where children are always present.
there are many benefits associated with working with therapy animals. some benefits that have been found in utilizing therapy animals include :
- Animals help improve motivation and engagement with programs.
- Animals provide a sense of security and emotional support.
- Animals can promote relaxation. Research has demonstrated that petting an animal can help lower blood pressure, heart rate and increase oxytocin ( a feel-good chemical in the brain).
- Animals can help the client learn frustration tolerance and other anger management techniques.
- Animals can help in areas of focus and attention.
- Animals can be instruments of learning, which can increase self-confidence and self esteem.
- Animals offer humour and fun due to their playful nature.