Homestead mailing list

["Lisa K.V. Perry" <lisakvperry AT gmail.com>]

>
> Caring for farm animals appears to offer a therapeutic benefit for people
> with mental illness, according to new research.


The researchers noted that work with farm animals may improve mental health
> in part because it gives a person physical contact with another living
> being. Routines that include activities like feeding, milking and caring for
> other living creatures may also promote self-esteem and confidence.


http://well.blogs.nytimes.com/2008/04/11/better-mental-health-down-on-the-farm/