Tag Archives: AIDS

When Dogs Heal

When Dogs Heal is a photographic exhibition supported by the charity Fred Says, which helps people diagnosed with HIV.

The photographs tell the stories of the dogs who helped their HIV-positive owners through tough times.

When Dogs Heal photograph

Paolo and Stud

The photographs have been shown in Chicago and New York, and through the When Dogs Heal website, galleries can express interest in hosting an exhibit.

When Dogs Heal photograph

Sharon and Dulk

The stories behind the photographs are pretty hard-hitting, but then again so is HIV and the impact of an HIV diagnosis.  Just another example of the human-animal bond and the connection between dogs and good health.

Kathleen Crisley, specialist in dog massage, rehabilitation and nutrition/food therapy, The Balanced Dog, Christchurch, New Zealand

 

Furry friends with benefits

Research conducted at Case Western Reserve University has revealed the positive impact that pet ownership has on women who are managing HIV/AIDS.

Dr Allison Webel set out to understand how women manage their HIV/AIDS and stay on track to take their medications, follow doctors’ orders and live healthy lifestyles.  She found that “Pets—primarily dogs—gave these women a sense of support and pleasure.”

The human and animal bond in healing and therapy is being recognized, Webel said, as more animals are visiting nursing homes to connect to people with dementia or hospitals to visit children with long hospital stays.

Dr Webel talks about her research in this YouTube video: