| I began taking photos for this book in September of 1998. I'll never forget that first photo shoot. I was dropped off in front of a nursing home where the president of the local AAT club was waiting. Filled with anxiety, I had no idea of what to expect from pet visitation. That day was a blur. I was photographing people bound by wheelchairs and tubes. Hallways and rooms were filled with furry visitors -- I couldn't decide which room to walk into first. It all seemed so chaotic, yet we moved efficiently from room to room. People with different backgrounds and experiences were joined together by a common love for animals and the unquestionable benefits they bring.
Throughout this project, I was faced with many different situations. I was invited to observe a psychiatric program during an AAT session, but not allowed to photograph for reasons of confidentiality. I was able to observe and experience what cannot always be captured on film.
I also had the opportunity to visit children's hospitals where children are single out by trauma, illness, and other unfortunate situations that find them in continuous care accompanied by parents who have spent days without sleep, standing by their bedside hoping for a happier time. When the dogs entered the room, these children had huge smiles, parents were relieved and happy to see any positive reaction on their young faces.
Rehabilitation centers were also a unique experience. I observed patients who interrupted their physical therapy routines to reach out and pet the dogs which, I was told, encourages a range of motion. Petting the animal is such a natural response learned in childhood, if not inherent, maybe the will to reach out a hand overrides what couldn't be accomplished during regular physical therapy a day before. As some sat in their chairs depressed or lonely, alienated, or angry, a pet diverted their thoughts for a while.
I also had the pleasure of photographing a young girl beginning riding therapy which has been an exceptional addition to her standard physical therapy. Her ability to learn and focus increased immeasurably as she performed various activities on horseback.
Another particularly rewarding situation for me was observing special-needs children interacting with dogs and cats. As the children were placed on the floor, one at a time, their stiff bodies quickly loosened and their confused expressions turned into smiles as they mingled with the pets. Staff members helped support their bodies and guide their hands across the animals' fur.
© Renee Lamm Esordi
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