Science shows petting a dog or even watching someone pet a dog, can lower blood pressure and anxiety, help increase the feel-good hormones serotonin and dopamine, and lower cortisol levels.
Four-year-old golden retriever Beacon is USAG's first therapy dog. Beacon was on hand earlier this summer to help calm the nerves of the athletes and coaches at the US Olympic trials. USAG hired him part-time to comfort gymnasts and staff. Beacon's role was vital during the trials, where gymnasts competed for a spot on Team USA for the Paris Olympics.
Beacon is just one of part of USA Gymnastics’ long-overdue mental health program. In addition to therapy pets, the initiative also includes mindfulness sessions and a team of therapists who are at the ready to work with athletes.
Source: People
