At Brave Like Me, we’ve seen firsthand the powerful benefits of Animal-Assisted Therapy (AAT) for children facing complex health conditions. Whether a child is living with a chronic illness, undergoing intense medical treatments, or navigating developmental challenges, the calming presence of a therapy animal can make a meaningful difference in their healing journey. These four-legged companions offer more than comfort—they provide connection, motivation, and joy when kids need it most.
Here are five of the top benefits of Animal-Assisted Therapy for kids with complex health conditions:
1. Reduces Anxiety and Stress
Medical environments can be overwhelming. From frequent doctor visits to lengthy hospital stays, children often feel anxious and isolated. Interacting with therapy animals has been shown to lower cortisol (the stress hormone) and boost oxytocin—the hormone linked to bonding and trust. Just a few minutes of cuddling or petting a therapy dog can help a hospitalized child feel calm and safe.
2. Provides Motivation for Physical Activity
Many children with serious health conditions struggle with mobility or motivation during rehabilitation. A therapy dog can turn physical therapy into play. Whether it’s reaching out to pet or brush a dog, throwing a ball, or walking alongside a furry friend, these small interactions can make movement more enjoyable and less intimidating.
3. Encourages Emotional Expression
For children who are non-verbal, withdrawn, or emotionally shut down due to illness or trauma, animals offer a nonjudgmental, gentle presence. Kids often find it easier to open up around animals, expressing feelings they might not share with adults. Incorporating AAT as an emotional support animal can bring about breakthrough moments for therapists and caregivers.
4. Builds Social Skills and Confidence
Children with complex needs sometimes struggle in social situations, especially in group settings. Interacting with a therapy animal creates a shared focus that makes socializing easier. AAT programs often encourage group participation, helping children practice turn-taking, communication, and empathy—key skills for building confidence and friendships.
5. Enhances Overall Well-being
Beyond the emotional and physical benefits, AAT simply brings joy. That joy has measurable impacts: improved mood, better sleep, reduced perception of pain, and even improved cooperation during medical procedures. When a child smiles or laughs with a therapy animal, it's more than just a heartwarming moment—it's healing in action.
Why This Matters
The benefits of animal-assisted therapy can transform the healthcare experience for hospitalized children and children experiencing complex medical conditions. These animals aren’t just visitors—they’re vital members of the care team, helping kids feel stronger, more hopeful, and more connected. Animal therapy can be hugely beneficial when incorporated into other pediatric care routines.
This is why we’ve created our Mobile Family Pet Reunion Center: to bring the benefits of animal-assisted therapy one step further by creating a safe and comforting environment for hospitalized children to reunite with their own family pet. Our unique space provides a cozy and intimate spot for kids to spend time reconnecting with their family pet, cuddling, playing and enjoying moments of companionship and love.
Learn more about our Mobile Family Pet Reunion Center here, or donate today to help us bring our pet center to more hospitals nationwide.
Together, we can help more kids experience the comfort and courage that comes from a paw, a purr, or a playful tail wag.
