These methods, which require interdisciplinary teamwork; in recent years, besides the improvement of physical structure and functions in neurodevelopmental diseases such as cerebral palsy and autism spectrum disorder, activity participation and quality of life have increased in chronic diseases such as cardiovascular diseases, cancer and AIDS, and mental health diseases such as stress, anxiety, depression and schizophrenia that adversely affect human health. It is frequently used because of the psychomotor and psychosomatic effects provided by the physical, emotional and game effect mechanisms.
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Therapy with Farm Animal: It is mentioned in the literature that there are no barriers for all farm animals to participate in treatment programs as long as they are safe for health. It is recommended to use farm animals therapy especially for adults with autism and individuals who want to develop independent living skills.
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Therapy with Dolphin: It is one of the animal-assisted approaches used for therapeutic purposes in individuals who have problems in cognitive and physical functions in recent years. Dolphin therapy has positive effects on communication, sensory processing skills, and fine-gross motor skills. Along with these, the most important feature of this therapy is; dolphins have a high level of intelligence and benefit from the stress-reducing feature of water.
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Therapy with Dog: It is used to improve the functional, physical, cognitive and social skills of the individual. The most important usage area is individuals with autism spectrum disorder and visually impaired individuals. The most important use of dogs in treatments is to ensure the independence and safety of the individual in daily life activities.
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Therapy with Cat: Cats are among the animals that are frequently used in therapy, especially because of their psychotherapeutic effects. Cats, which can interact with humans similarly to dogs, are used in therapy with their natural and independent structures, especially in line with the goal of socialization.
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Therapy with Horse (Hippotherapy): The most commonly used and most popular approach among animal-assisted therapies is the use of the horse for therapy. Hippotherapy is the improvement or regaining of the physical structure and functions of the individual by making use of the horse's back movements. In general, in all disability groups and especially; To regulate abnormal muscle tone in arousal and attention problems that may arise from cerebral palsy, multiple sclerosis, head traumas, developmental neurological disorders, post-traumatic neurological conditions, autism spectrum disorders, learning difficulties, sensory processing disorders, limbic system dysfunctions, postural symmetry, postural control and It is used to develop physical, sensory, emotional, cognitive and social skills by supporting the development of balance reactions.
Let's love and protect our dear friends. They need us and we need them...
Research Assistant Mustafa Oğuz KETHÜDAOĞLU
