At Jinan Zhishan Psychological Hospital, an unusual therapist greets patients – a round-faced tabby cat named “Convenience Bag” who establishes trust by rubbing against visitors and scent-marking. Since joining the medical team in March, this affectionate feline has assisted in treating over 100 children struggling with school refusal and depression through animal-assisted therapy.
“Animals create a safe emotional space that allows children to open up,” explains therapist Feng Jie. The hospital’s program currently serves about 10 pediatric patients daily, achieving remarkable results: 30% of treated children have successfully returned to school.
The Science Behind Animal-Assisted Therapy
Unlike casual pet interactions, medical animal therapy follows a structured “therapist+animal+patient” model. “Just like using sandplay or cards, animals become vehicles for psychological intervention,” Feng emphasizes. The tabby’s presence facilitates therapeutic conversations while trained clinicians guide the process.
Hospital director Zhang Jingxuan cites international research showing 20+ minutes of human-animal interaction boosts “happy hormones.” The approach has gained widespread acceptance in the U.S., UK and Japan for adolescent mental health treatment.
Expanding the Menagerie of Healing
While currently focused on children with anxiety, depression and school avoidance, the program shows promise for adults with emotional development needs. “Convenience Bag’s” success has earned top billing on the hospital’s expert roster and inspired plans to recruit more therapy animals.
“This isn’t just about pet ownership,” Zhang notes. “We’re demonstrating animals’ social value in bringing hope to vulnerable populations.” The hospital aims to expand its animal therapy program to help more children heal emotional wounds through these unconventional but effective therapeutic partnerships.
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