This organization uses therapy dogs to help stressed out humans

The link between pets and mental health has been extensively studied, with research showing that interacting with animal friends can play a positive role in one's psychological well-being.

- By YVETTE TAN

One social enterprise is bringing therapy dogs to groups that need extra TLC, especially during particularly stressful times.

Communitails was founded in 2016 by a group of health and human service professionals who believed that fostering mutually healing relationships with animals and humans will enhance the quality of life for both. The organization pioneered animal-assisted interventions in the Philippines.

"We cater to individuals, to groups, institutions such as schools, offices, hospitals, and even shelters," said human-animal team member (therapy dog handler) and former Communitails Animal Assisted Interventions (AAI) Coordinator Bettina Coz. "We also have lectures, trainings, and workshops that advance the awareness of the human-animal bond and its benefits, as well as animal welfare advocacy, responsible pet ownership, and mental health awareness."

Furry stress relief

Coz narrates what a typical visit entails. "They would invite us to get wellness or stress relief programs and we... tailor fit [the program] to what they need and... through that, we do activities that foster wellness."