When you experience the loss of a loved one, the corresponding grief can be life-changing and debilitating. There are some practical measures that have proven to help individuals manage intense feelings of sadness and depression. One of these is spending time with a therapy dog, whose company can help you cope as you move through your grief journey.
At Krause Funeral Home, we understand our neighbors in New Berlin, Brookfield, and Milwaukee may need to take therapeutic steps to help them move through their grief. The peace and comfort that a therapy dog provides can be incredibly beneficial to someone who has recently suffered an acute loss.
Here are 5 benefits of spending time with a trained support animal like our grief therapy dog Bennie:
- It boosts your physical health.
Spending time with a pet has physical health benefits like lowering blood pressure and even reducing the intensity of chronic pain. Hanging out with a therapy dog may increase your energy levels, boost your immunity, and make you more willing to exercise and be active throughout your day.
- It reduces stress.
Maintaining a positive outlook can be especially tough after you’ve lost a loved one. Time spent with a therapy dog can reduce the stress and anxiety that so often accompanies grief.
- It improves your mood.
When you spend time with a therapy dog, you may also experience an increase in the mood-boosting hormone oxytocin, a rise in self-esteem, and an improvement in your overall mood.
- It strengthens your social connections.
A therapy pet can help you feel less lonely and more connected to others. After being around a therapy dog, you may notice you feel more confident and inspired to spend quality time with family and friends in social situations.
- It builds your resilience.
Receiving the attention of a calm comfort dog can be an enriching encounter that promotes feelings of strength and resilience. Being in the presence of a grief therapy dog may also make you feel more able to face life’s challenges.
Krause’s Own Grief Therapy Dog
Bennie, our very own grief therapy dog, is an integral part of our grief support program at Krause. He is certified with the Canine Good Citizen program and since joining our home has touched countless lives with his calming presence. We encourage our neighbors to schedule a time to visit our funeral home and meet Bennie in person.
Contact our team today to learn more about our grief support and funeral and cremation services. We are here for you 24/7 and ready to answer any questions you may have.