Some Use Animal Therapies Post-Play Interacting with therapy animals can help some players ground after scenes—especially after intense or triggering emotional release. Players may be more comfortable opening up about difficult feelings and experiences when interacting with an animal that does not judge them. This can be especially helpful for those who have difficulty expressing themselves verbally. Therapy dogs and cats provide comfort and support during times of stress, anxiety, and depression. They also offer physical touch without expectation of reciprocation, which can be helpful for individuals who do not respond well to human contact. Players may find it easier to connect with their partners while holding or petting an animal than engaging in conversation alone. Animals are also nonjudgmental listeners, providing unconditional love and affection without judgment or criticism. For example, if a player is upset about something that happened during play, they can talk to the dog or cat about it instead of immediately talking to their partner, allowing time to process emotions before discussing them further. Some players feel safer disclosing personal information or asking for advice from an animal rather than a person. Animals are trained to be attentive listeners and offer reassurance through body language and vocalizations. The benefits of animal therapies post-play go beyond simple companionship. Therapy animals can reduce blood pressure and heart rate, lower cortisol levels, and improve mood. Players often report feeling less anxious and stressed after spending time with a therapy animal. Physical contact with the animal can increase the release of oxytocin, known as the "cuddle hormone" for its effects on bonding and connection. In addition, many people find that interacting with animals provides a sense of purpose and meaning in life. It allows them to give back and make a difference in the lives of others by supporting therapy work. While some people prefer human interaction over animal interaction, many find that therapy animals provide unique support and comfort during difficult times.
Some Use Animal Therapies Post-Play Interacting with therapy dogs or cats helps some players ground after scenes—especially after intense or triggering emotional release. Players may be more comfortable opening up about difficult feelings and experiences when interacting with an animal that does not judge them. This can be especially helpful for those who have difficulty expressing themselves verbally. Therapy animals provide comfort and support during times of stress, anxiety, and depression. They also offer physical touch without expectation of reciprocation, which can be helpful for individuals who do not respond well to human contact. Players may find it easier to connect with their partners while holding or petting an animal than engaging in conversation alone. Animals are also nonjudgmental listeners, providing unconditional love and affection without judgment or criticism. For example, if a player is upset about something that happened during play, they can talk to the dog or cat about it instead of immediately talking to their partner, allowing time to process emotions before discussing them further. Some players feel safer disclosing personal information or asking for advice from an animal rather than a person. Animals are trained to be attentive listeners and offer reassurance through body language and vocalizations. The benefits of animal therapies post-play go beyond simple companionship. Therapy animals can reduce blood pressure and heart rate, lower cortisol levels, and improve mood. Physical contact with the animal can increase the release of oxytocin, known as the "cuddle hormone" for its effects on bondage and connection. In addition, many people find that interacting with animals provides a sense of purpose and meaning in life. It allows them to give back and make a difference in the lives of others by supporting therapy work. While some people prefer human interaction over animal interaction, many find that therapy animals provide unique support and comfort during difficult times.