Most people are aware of Guide Dogs for the Blind and Hearing Dogs for the Deaf. Over the last 50 years there has been an increasing realisation among health and therapy professionals that close contact with other living creatures can be therapeutic. All kinds of people can benefit - the young, the old, those with mental health problems such as anxiety and depression, those with dementia, stroke victims and those who have survived trauma and sexual abuse. This book looks at how the animal-human bond can benefit well-being and overall health. Topics include:

the origins of pet therapy, dating back to the 18th century

famous people who found it helpful, such as Florence Nightingale and Sigmund Freud

Pets and your physical health

Pets and mental health

Pets and older people

Assistance animals

Animals and children

Choosing a pet