Make a Connection with Pet Therapy

In 1982, Hinsdale Humane Society began caring for humans in addition to pets with the introduction of our pet therapy programs. Our first program, Pet-a-Pet, sends trained owners and their approved pets to nursing homes and retirement communities. In 2005, we added R.E.A.D. ® (Reading Education Assistance Dogs). In this program, our teams of trained owners and their Delta-registered dogs visit libraries, schools, and after school programs to work with children on reading skills. And in 2011, we are introducing C.A.R.e (Canine Assisted Rehabilitation). In this program, trained owners and their Delta-registered dogs visit the Adventist Paulson Pediatric Rehabilitation Center to help children with physical rehabilitation.

Benefits of Pet Therapy

Animals are a medication without side effects. Pet Therapy can provide benefits in the areas of:

Mental Health – Animals provide acceptance without qualification. They offer nurturing, entertainment, socialization, mental stimulation, and for some feelings of spiritual fulfillment. They can increase self-esteem and empathy and open channels of emotionally safe communication.
Physical Health – Animals can be used to increase an individual’s fine motor skills, wheelchair skills, and balance. They can also stimulate relaxation, leading to decreased heart rate and blood pressure.
Education – Animals don’t judge, creating a non-threatening learning environment. Also, being with an animal can be a great motivator to achieving learning goals.