How Therapy Dogs Help City Folks Deal with Stress
Dogs are becoming widely recognized for their ability to provide emotional support. The trend became even more popular after the 2024 Olympics introduced its first official therapy dog. A Golden Retriever named Beacon was one of 11 therapy dogs to provide affection, comfort, and support to the gymnasts hoping to qualify for Team USA. Although she did not go to Paris, talks are already underway concerning Olympic therapy dogs at the 2028 Olympics. If therapy dogs can make such a difference at the Olympics, imagine the impact they can have on city dwellers dealing with daily stress. Therapy dogs are becoming an essential part of urban stress relief, particularly in bustling cities like Chicago. For city dwellers, these trained companions offer a unique way to manage anxiety and improve mental well-being. So, what are the benefits of therapy dogs in general and for Chicago city dwellers?
Therapy Dogs at the Olympics
Beacon was a valuable outlet for the gymnasts competing for a spot on Team USA. Owner Callahan Molnar described how the gymnasts turned to the dog to discuss, “their pets or another dog experience. Or maybe it’s an ache or pain or something they’re nervous about in the competition.”
She described how Beacon served as a listening board for the gymnasts. Molnar talked about how Beacon would sit on the ground so the athletes could get down next to her and rub her belly. She felt touched when gold medal-winning Olympian Suni Lee said, “Thank God for Beacon.”
Molnar said therapy happens when a person connects with the dog. She also said physical proximity helps.
The increasing visibility of therapy dogs in high-profile settings means humans are more likely to adopt them in their lives. They are especially useful in urban settings that promote stress and anxiety. Dogs can serve as, well, a beacon in the storm.
Urban Wellness and the Role of Therapy Dogs
How Therapy Dogs Provide Urban Stress Relief in Chicago
City dwellers are prone to stress. The pollution, noise, and hustle and bustle of everyday life can become too much. Additionally, despite the 24/7 activity, many urbanites suffer from loneliness and depression.
Dogs provide companionship and support. They can also smell happiness and fear in humans. This sense of empathy helps them act accordingly offering comfort to their owners.
Case Studies and Examples of the Benefits of Therapy Dogs
An NIH study looks at the value of therapy dogs in urban communities. Dr. Ann Berger discussed their ability to provide support. “Dogs are very present. If someone is struggling with something, they know to sit there and be loving. Their attention is focused on the person all the time.”
Animal interaction promotes the production of serotonin and oxytocin, feel-good chemicals that improve mood, aid relaxation, and lower blood pressure. A HABRI Benchmark Survey of U.S. Pet Owners revealed that 74% of pet owners report mental health benefits with pet ownership. 54% also said they experienced physical health improvements.
The Role of K9U
K9U supports the dog therapy trend with dog training in Chicago. We provide basic obedience and reactivity/aggression training to ensure your dog is well-behaved and can focus on your wellness needs. Our training services are suited for dogs of all ages.
Clients can choose from various training programs. With Day Training, you can leave your dog here in the morning so they can enjoy a day of training while you’re at work. Boarding and Training offers a full-time, comprehensive experience. Private Training is customized to your dog’s needs.
City life can get rough, especially in a busy city like Chicago. Therapy dogs can support mental wellness reducing feelings of stress, anxiety, and depression. For those in Chicago looking to improve their mental wellness, therapy dogs offer a proven solution for managing urban stress. Through targeted training and support, these dogs can make a significant difference in city living.
K9U dog training will help them achieve an attitude to provide the emotional assistance you require.
Contact us to book your first training session today.
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