IL HR0224

Declares April 30, 2023 as Illinois Therapy Animal Day to recognize and honor therapy animals and their volunteers.

Recognizes therapy animals (dogs, cats, horses, rabbits, birds, and others) that provide comfort and support in hospitals, nursing homes, schools, and other settings.

Acknowledges research demonstrating that therapy animals improve mental wellness by reducing fear, anxiety, loneliness, and isolation, while also lowering perceived pain levels and shortening recovery times.

Notes that therapy animals enhance learning by fostering reading abilities, fluency, comprehension, and providing motivation and confidence to those in need.

Encourages Illinois citizens to recognize the contributions of therapy animals and support organizations that train and provide these animals to individuals with physical, emotional, and cognitive disabilities.