June 27, 2016.
We are often told that people who have never had a pet do not understand the love they bring us. The Lutheran Church has set up a team of Golden Retrievers to comfort victims of tragic events.
My dog is not a pet, he is my family
Scientists have proven that dogs are an important source of comfort. The Lutheran Church has set up a “K-9” program, which brings together 130 “comforting” dogs in 23 states. They were chosen for their calm and each of them has been trained to give love and affection to those in difficulty.
No less than 12 specially trained Golden Retrievers arrived in Orlando following the homophobic massacre. As reported by New York Times, they also attended the commemorations in tribute to the Pulse. These same dogs were also present after the bombings at the Boston Marathon and at Sandy Hook after the elementary school shooting.
Dogs affect human emotions
Dogs have been shown to actually affect human emotions, moods and feelings through their presence. According to Brian Hare, professor of cognitive neuroscience at Duke University and author of the book “The Genius of Dogs,” they have an incredible connection with people. He explains thatn just having a look with dogs, we increase our “oxytocin” or “love hormone” “.
According to Smithsonian, oxytocin improves self-confidence, the ability to interpret facial expressions and fights paranoia. Dogs are often used in psychological or psychiatric treatment, as they decrease symptoms of post-traumatic stress or depression in veterans, or people who suffered abuse during their childhood. They also help people with heart disease, reducing stress and anxiety.
Read also: Having a dog offers better health for children
