Canine therapy

Early this morning (4/1/2020) my dog Sophie died at the U of M small animal emergency room. We had 7 lovely years of camping on the North Shore, hiking the SHT, walking around Lake Harriet and Pike Island, and relaxing in the sun. Some of you may have gotten to know her as she worked the reception area to greet people before sessions. Some of you allowed her to be present during bodywork sessions. She was patient, kind and fiercely protective. She loved to dance and do tricks for treats. I am so grateful that I had her in my life and had a chance to hold her and tell her how much she meant to me as she died. She was such a generous creature and I hope someday I will be her equal. 
Research suggests that through caring for and interacting with a dog, there can be many benefits, including: 
Decreased stress 
Increased physical activity and healthy play 
Relief from anxiety and depression 
Increased focus and attention through experiential learning 
Improved communication and social skills 
Learning appropriate ways to treat self and others 
Unconditional love, affection, nurturing and empathy 
Increased self-esteem and feelings of empowerment 
Reduced blood pressure 
Elevated mood 
Raised levels of oxytocin 
Reduced loneliness and bigger sense of purpose 
Setting and respecting boundaries 
Motivation to stay in treatment and participate fully in therapy