In order to improve the range of professional animal therapy for children with life-limiting or life-threatening diseases, the Regine Sixt Children's Aid Foundation has supported the Reuben's Retreat therapy center as part of the employee Christmas bonus program. The regular Paws for Thought therapy program includes a professional animal therapy session for the whole family. Research has shown that animal-assisted therapy can significantly improve a person's physical, emotional, social, behavioral, and cognitive functioning. It has also been found to reduce pain, anxiety, depression and fatigue in people with a range of health conditions. Therefore, children with life-limiting or life-threatening illnesses benefit from these sessions, and family members and friends who are present at animal visits also feel better. The ultimate goal is to help families create precious memories with the time left.
