For millions of people dealing with anxiety, therapy dogs are not just pets, they’re life-changing companions. These remarkable animals are specially trained to detect and respond to human emotions, ...

Exposure therapy has been a first-line behavioral treatment for anxiety disorders, especially phobias. It is highly effective for those whose wariness of specific objects and experiences—dogs ...

The Emotional Connection One of the most immediate and recognizable benefits of owning a pet is the unconditional love and ...

For example, a kid with a phobia of dogs may not go to a friend's house ... fearful or anxious also can "teach" a child to be afraid too. Anxiety disorders can be diagnosed by a trained therapist.

Spending quality time with dogs can reduce stress ... add to evidence that canine therapy – often used in hospitals, schools and prisons – can help reduce anxiety and stress.

A growing army of trained animals is helping people — from children with autism to the elderly — enjoy more fulfilling lives.

Walter, a 3-year-old basset hound, is the school’s official therapy dog, and staff say he makes ... and will discuss their problems with him while a staff member is in the room, Dolezal said.