TheraPets.org provides Occupational Therapy and Animal Assisted Therapy (AAT) to Special Education students and their families in Northern Illinois. Many of our students are non-verbal and most of our students are in self-contained classes and have IEP's (Individualized Educational Plans).
AAT is a unique treatment modality that allows students to give affection as well as receive it as part of their therapy.
Research has shown the following benefits have been
associated with human/animal interactions:
- decreased anxiety
- improved social skills
- decreased agitation & aggression
- improved motor skills
- decreased tactile sensitivity
- improved trust after traumatic events (e.g. PTSD)
- decreased blood pressure and cholesterol
- improved attention
Want to support TheraPets Animal Assisted Therapy (AAT) programs? TheraPets offers our Gibson’s Funk Wear tie-dyed shirts for all donations of $50. Gibson's hoodies are provided for all donations over $100. Direct donations are also gratefully accepted in any amount.
100% (yes every penny) of shirt/hoodie proceeds will go towards therapy dogs, animal food, vaccinations, education and training supplies.
