Benefits for the Animal: 

• Increased emotional bond with human giver, possibly overcoming emotional barriers

• Lessening of pain and pain response (limited movement, limited emotional/physical release, anxiety, fear or aggression)

• Healing of physical injury by breakdown of scar tissue and lessening of contracture

• Relaxation and calming

• Release of stress

• Increased blood flow to vital organs

• Stimulation of central nervous system

• Stimulation of endocrine system

• Increased metabolism Increased peristaltic activity (intestinal activity)

• Release of histamine (an organic nitrogen compound involved in local immune responses as well as regulating physiological function in the gut and acting as a neurotransmitter)