CP Factsheet. Dolphin Therapy

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1 Dolphin Therapy CP Factsheet Background Dolphins have been a source of fascination for the human race for thousands of years. In recent years there has been considerable research into dolphin therapy and some of those who have received it have given supportive testimony. However, little independent scientific evidence has yet been found to support these claims. What does dolphin therapy involve? Dolphin therapy is more than just swimming with, or being in contact with dolphins. Programs, customised to the individual are devised by therapists. Therapy takes place next to and/or in a pool with captive or semi-captive dolphins. The therapists assist the individual, primarily disabled children, to engage in activities targeted at improving specific skills, movement or behaviours. These activities may directly involve the dolphins or contact with them may be used as a reward or motivation for performing the activity. How might the therapy work? Dolphin therapy does not claim to cure any specific condition but it may help alleviate some symptoms associated with some conditions. Researchers analysed blood samples taken before and after people underwent therapy. Results showed that after swimming with dolphins there is evidence of a change in levels of hormones, endorphins and enzymes. How this is possible is still not well understood. There is ongoing research in universities and dolphin research centres but the evidence that dolphin therapy works remains anecdotal. Some of the theories that have been put forward include the following:- Therapy in a pleasant environment. Encounters with dolphins evoke a deep emotional response. It is believed that children are more responsive to the therapy because they play in a pleasant environment, which motivates them to complete the tasks. It has also been suggested that dolphins can sense areas of disability in the human body and they motivate children to use these parts. Sound - the healing principle is similar to that of sound therapy. Rhythm and vibrational sound facilitate an altered mood. According to Dr Cole, chairman of the 1

2 Aqua Thought Foundation, swimming with dolphins can create physiological cell and tissue change in the body. He explains that dolphins have a natural sonar: they emit ultrasound waves to localise things and to communicate. This process is called "echolocation". Sounds emitted by the dolphins are so intense that they can cause "cavitations": they create holes in the molecular structure of fluids and soft tissues. Cole believes that the dolphins' signal frequencies can have a profound effect on the human brain by modifying the brainwave activity. Results of EEG tests carried out on people who experienced the echolocation showed that the dominant human brain frequency drops from beta to alpha. It was also noted that both sides of the brain enter into synchronisation, which means there is a far better communication between the left and right sides of the brain. This is an uncommon neurological state, which is typically associated with heightened awareness and increased learning ability. Cost Dolphin therapy is costly and not available on the NHS. Some people have been successful in raising funds by applying to charitable funders or organising their own fundraising events. For details of current costs and availability of places contact the therapy centres directly. Dolphin Human Therapy David Nathanson Phd SW 104 CT Miami Florida Tel: [email protected] Website: Dolphin Research Centre Overseas Highway Grassy Key Florida Tel: Fax: [email protected] Website: Island Dolphin Care Centre 150 Lorelane Place Key Largo Florida Tel: Fax: [email protected] 2

3 Website: Dolphin Reef Eilat Southern Beach PO Box 104 Eilat Israel Tel: [email protected] Website: Dolphin Care International Head Office Disterwegplatz 34 Postfach D Frankfurt/Main Germany [email protected] Website Other centres There are many organisations worldwide offering opportunities to swim with or watch dolphins, but which do not offer special facilities. A useful booklet At a Glance Guide gives details of many of these centres. This is available at a small charge. For more information contact: International Dolphin Watch 10 Melton Road North Ferriby East Yorkshire HU14 3ET Tel: [email protected] Website: Whale and Dolphin Conservation Society The Whale and Dolphin Conservation Society is concerned about the use of Dolphin therapy because they feel that there are no official standards or enforceable guidelines for its practice. They are also concerned about the use of captive or wild dolphins as this could expose participants to possible physical harm and health risks. They do not believe that there is enough evidence to suggest that the therapy is effective. They have produced a leaflet which sets out their concerns. For more information contact: WDCS, Whale and Dolphin Conservation Society Brookfield House 38 St Paul Street Chippenham 3

4 Wiltshire SN15 1LJ United Kingdom Tel: Fax: Website Conclusion Dolphin Therapy is not a clinical cure for cerebral palsy, nor is there clear scientific evidence that this approach has a positive, long-term effect on the condition. There are also ethical questions around the removal of dolphins from their natural habitat. Further reading Creature Comfort, Animals that Heal Graham, Bernie Publ: Simon & Schuster UK Ltd, 1999 ISBN: Dolphins and their Power to Heal Cochrane, Amanda and Callen, Karena Publ: Bloomsbury, 1992 ISBN: The Dolphin Within Awakening Human Potential De Bergerac, Olivia Publ: Simon & Schuster, 1998 ISBN: Dolphin Healing Dobbs, Horace Publ: Piatkus Books, 2000 ISBN: As with any therapy or treatment, we advise people with CP, carers and parents to consult their GP, consultant or health professional before starting or paying for treatment. Due to the individual nature of cerebral palsy, some people will benefit from specific treatments and therapies, others will not. Assessment of individual needs is very important. This factsheet is for information purposes only and is not intended to be a recommendation. 4

5 Our Advice Service Advice Service Capability Scotland is a national disability advice and information service. We specialise in information on cerebral palsy. We offer: information on Capability Scotland services advice on cerebral palsy general advice on disability issues We also have a small lending library with resources about cerebral palsy and children's books about disability. You can get in touch with us by calling, ing, dropping in or writing a letter. Advice Service Capability Scotland 11 Ellersly Road Edinburgh EH12 6HY Tel: Textphone: Fax: [email protected] Web: This factsheet can be made available in other formats e.g. tape, large print. Advice Service Capability Scotland acknowledges the co-operation of SCOPE in the preparation of this fact sheet. February 2012 Capability Scotland, Scottish Charity SCO