My dog Stella’s presence in the art studio – calm, playful, or attentive - has been a helpful one. She is an adult Bichon/Poodle who can be relied upon for infinitely enthusiastic greetings, unconditional affection, and quiet patience toward those who wish to stroke her soft fur, request tricks from her, or ignore her. She’s been the inspiration for drawings, paintings, stories, and sculpture (see photo), and has served as an affectionate friend when warm furry snuggles are needed.

But having a cute dog in the studio is only one advantage provided by pet-assisted therapy. Research is uncovering scientific data strongly supporting the idea that canines promote health in humans. Scientists at the University of Missouri-Columbia found that within minutes of petting a dog, humans and dogs alike produce massive levels of serotonin, oxytocin, and prolactin – the “feel good” hormones. Moreover, there’s a decrease in cortisol – the primary stress hormone that regulates appetite and carbohydrate cravings

Researchers also found there is no substitute for the real thing - using robot dogs not only failed to increase human serotonin levels, but actually caused them to drop. These findings have far-reaching implications, suggesting pet-assisted therapy can provide an alternative treatment (free of side-effects) for hypertension, depression, stress, anxiety, fear, and other emotional or mood disorders.

Research outside the lab has uncovered additional benefits. Being in the same room with a dog has been shown to lower blood pressure and help people relax. Children’s craving for touch and movement is satisfied by handling dogs, and they also learn gentleness, empathy, compassion, and responsibility. Hospital patients recover faster. The risk of heart attack is lowered. Seniors have less pain, less loneliness, make fewer doctor visits, and use less medication when they have access to dogs. Research in long-term care facilities in Texas, New York and Missouri showed average medication costs decreased from $3.80 to $1.18 per patient per day when pets were introduced into their living environment.

Much of the time I offer my dog Stella as a means of support and comfort during studio sessions (this is always optional). Her unconditional acceptance of the therapy process makes her a healthy asset to my studio!