Whether someone with PTSD should start with a cat or a dog as a therapy animal depends on their individual preferences, needs, and circumstances. Both cats and dogs can provide valuable emotional support and companionship, but there are some differences between the two that may influence the choice medically speaking:
Dogs as Therapy Animals:
- Social Interaction: Dogs are generally more social animals and are often highly attuned to human emotions. They can provide more direct and active emotional support through their affection, loyalty, and willingness to engage with their owners.
- Physical Activity: Dogs require regular walks and exercise, which can encourage the owner to engage in physical activity. Exercise is known to have positive effects on mental health and can help reduce stress and anxiety.
- Structured Routine: Taking care of a dog can provide a structured daily routine, which can be beneficial for individuals with PTSD who may struggle with a lack of routine or structure.
- Training Opportunities: Dogs can be trained to perform specific tasks that can be helpful for individuals with PTSD, such as deep pressure therapy during panic attacks or waking them from nightmares.
- Community Interaction: Walking a dog can lead to increased social interaction with other pet owners, which can help reduce feelings of isolation and loneliness.
Cats as Therapy Animals:
- Low Maintenance: Cats are generally more independent and require less hands-on care compared to dogs. For individuals who may have limited physical capabilities or live in smaller living spaces, cats can be a more practical option.
- Calming Presence: Cats' soothing purring and gentle presence can be calming and provide comfort to individuals with PTSD.
- Less Stressful for Some: For those who may have allergies or aversions to dogs, cats can be a more suitable choice for a therapy animal.
- Lower Cost: In general, cats tend to be less expensive to care for than dogs.
Ultimately, the decision should be based on the individual's preferences, lifestyle, and ability to care for the animal. It's essential to consider factors such as the individual's living situation, available time for care and interaction, any allergies or pet-related phobias, and their ability to meet the physical and emotional needs of the animal.
Before getting a therapy animal, it is crucial to consult with a mental health professional to determine if this is a suitable option for the individual's specific PTSD symptoms and needs. A mental health professional can provide guidance, assess the individual's readiness for a therapy animal, and offer recommendations on the type of animal that might be most beneficial for their condition. Additionally, they can help in finding reputable sources for therapy animals and provide ongoing support as the individual begins this journey.