Hurricane Harvey’s Unexpected Therapists!

Hurricane Harvey and Houston. We can’t escape the influx of information we are receiving. From the meteorological reports to property damage to loss of life, it’s all been a bit overwhelming. And, if you’re like me, you can’t seem to pull away from the conversations. When I began to think about what I would add to this conversation, I immediately felt sympathy for the animal victims. Not because the animals themselves are victims (which they are) but because these animals will offer their owners much needed support during the restoration process.

Pets can add unconditional love to the quality of life. The data supporting animal therapy and depression is increasing. Just 20 minutes with a dog significantly reduces stress. I know how important having a pet can be to a person with depression. Over the years my pets have provided me companionship when I was lonely and consistency to my daily schedule.

The survivors of Hurricane Harvey face challenges that they might not have ever experienced. I’m sure that many people who have never gone to therapy will find themselves filtering through the debris left by Harvey one therapy session at a time. But, I also know that survivors who already have a pet companion are ahead of the game in terms of therapeutic relief.

There are so many pictures of pets and their owners experiencing the storm together. I would like to share a few of my favorites. When I look at these pictures, I can see the bond between pet and owner and I know that together they will be just fine.

Hurricane Harvey is another catastrophe to test our resilience as a country. Time has proven that we can survive destruction and weather storms. In times like these, we need one another. The storm did not discriminate between Black/White and Christian/Muslim. It hit Houston indiscriminately. I hope that Harvey might teach us to be more loving toward one another and more appreciative of our lives and the lives we love (even our pets). Let’s keep Houston in our prayers, and as always let’s press on together!