In some studies, pet owners reported reduced fear, improved self-esteem and significantly fewer minor health problems and emotional concerns than people who had no pets. But it has also been shown that it is not necessary to actually own the pet in order to receive some benefits from an animal-human “relationship”. The mere presence of a friendly animal can be beneficial as well. “Visiting pets” or “therapy pets”, are just two of the names given to describe programmes in which animals help people just by visiting them. This may be an interesting possibility for people with MS who would have significant difficulties taking on the responsibility of their own pet due to problems with balance, mobility and co-ordination, fatigue and other MS symptoms.

To learn more about pet therapy visit:

http://www.deltasociety.org

http://www.petsastherapy.org

But what else can a dog do for you ?

Did you know that (in th UK at least and in may other countries) nearly all form forms of transport have facilities in place to carry assistance dogs with their owners. They have a duty under the Disability Discrimination Act (DDA) to provide services to enable assistance dog’s owners to travel.

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