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AIT has a good success rate in creating positive, quantifiable change at a deep level, which is extraordinary in itself as most of the animals I deal with have problems that have proved unresponsive to all other attempts at treatment.
However AIT is in no way a magic fix, and some problems are much easier to resolve than others. With resistent problems, it's a case of 'peeling the onion' therapeutically until the underlying trauma or other issue can be unearthed and resolved.
Generally I've found that if an animal is receptive to AIT, then usually initial improvements are noticeable quite quickly - perhaps after the animal's next doze or, more usually, after a good night's sleep. Sometimes it can take a couple of days.
Initial changes may range along a scale from 'a slightly more positive outlook' all the way to 'overnight personality change' (and this can happen where symptoms of trauma or post-traumatic stress have been severe). Some examples of the minimum I would expect to see within 24-48 hours after a session include:-
More relaxed, positive outlook
Greater confidence and self-esteem
Taking more interest
Healthier appetite
Increased sense of humour
Drinking more water
Being more vocal (joyous)
Increased movement/energy release (eg. circling stable, cantering around field)
Although it's less likely with AIT, it is also potentially possible that an animal experiences a temporary healing crisis as a result of any therapy. This might include:
Greater sensitivity & being more temperamental
Not wanting to be touched
Wanting to be alone
Eating less (or more)
Temporary worsening of symptoms
Being more vocal (demanding)
As a therapist, I see any response as a sign that something has shifted and I would expect the animal to benefit from further therapy sessions if necessary.
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