This week is #MentalHealthAwarenessWeek and here at the Shelter we see first-hand the benefits that pets have on our mental wellbeing.
We have been running HALT (Humans and Animals Learning Together) for some time now and have won awards for the initiative which encourages compassion, respect, and responsibility to some of Gloucestershire’s ‘at-risk’ youths.
We have seen the amazing, positive impact that working and learning alongside our dogs has for these young people so, with this in mind, we have recently launched a similar program for adults who are suffering from mental health issues to enjoy the benefits of bonding with one of our pets on our new Wellbeing Days.
In addition to these on-site events, we often take animals to care homes to spend some time with the residents who may miss having pets of their own, and we often take a dog or small animal to a local library for PAWS for Reading which encourages young people who find reading difficult to read aloud to the pet.
Pets can help reduce anxiety Pets provide companionship Walking a dog is a fun way to exercise Caring for a pet builds confidence Having a pet can help you meet new people
If you would like more information about pets and mental health, please CLICK HERE
