Just 3 Minutes With Miniature Horses and Donkeys Improves Teen Mood
AnxietyDepressionGeneralized Anxiety Disorder
Summary
A new study from the University of California, Davis, reveals that brief interactions with miniature horses and donkeys can significantly improve mood in teenagers. Just three minutes of contact with these animals reduces anxiety, loneliness, and stress while promoting a sense of calm. The research demonstrates that animals actively participate in creating positive emotional outcomes during these therapeutic interactions. This finding supports animal-assisted therapy as a practical, accessible intervention for adolescent mental health. The study suggests that even minimal exposure to animals can provide meaningful psychological benefits for teens.
