The emotional benefits from animals are difficult to measure, meaning that pets help humans without anyone knowing exactly why. What experts know, however, is that animals allow humans to focus, even for a short period of time, on something other than themselves. Specially trained pups can also help alert others that an Alzheimer's patient has wandered into harm's way. Mentally ill patients, or those with emotional problems, share a common bond when a cat or dog enters the room. Instead of reacting negatively to one another, it boosts morale and fosters a positive environment.
Pets are an antidote to depression.
Life in a care facility can be boring. A visit from a therapy cat or dog breaks the daily routine and stimulates interest in the world outside. Pets provide social interaction. In a health care facility, people come out of their rooms to socialize with the animals and with each other. Everyone has the need to touch.