Pets as Therapy for Scam Victims – 2024
Pets as Therapy for Scam Victims
Having Support Animals is Very Important for Scam Victims During Their Recovery
Primary Category: Scam Victim Recovery Psychology
Author:
• Tim McGuinness, Ph.D. – Anthropologist, Scientist, Director of the Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.
About This Article
Pets provide a unique form of therapy for scam victims by offering emotional and physical support during their recovery process. Scam victims often experience feelings of isolation, shame, and helplessness, but caring for a pet can help shift their focus away from their emotional distress and onto the needs of another living being.
The routine of feeding, walking, and nurturing a pet gives victims a sense of purpose and responsibility, while the act of petting a dog or cat releases stress-reducing hormones like oxytocin and lowers cortisol levels, helping alleviate anxiety and depression. Pets offer unconditional love and companionship, which helps rebuild trust and provide comfort without the fear of judgment.
