What is animal assisted therapy?

What is animal assisted therapy?

Animal therapy and animal assisted sessions give each individual the time to interact and engage with a range of animals in a relaxed environment. During our sessions each individual will have the opportunity to spend time with a range of small animals (rabbits, guinea pigs, runner ducks and chickens) watching, holding, stroking, grooming and feeding the animals. They will also have the opportunity to read to them, learn about them, make toys and treats for the animals and help organise their housing as appropriate. The sessions will move at each individuals pace and follow their interests and aims.  Animal assisted sessions can have many benefits, including:

* Mental health: The act of petting animals can release hormones that can improve mood, reduce anxiety, and lower stress levels. Animals can also help people feel less lonely and more comfortable.

* Social skills: Animals can help people build relationships with other children and adults around them and improve their social skills. They can also help people feel more confident and encourage them to share their feelings. 

* Cognitive function: Animals can help with mental stimulation and memory recall and help individuals learn about the world around them.   

* Therapeutic relationship: Animals can help improve relationships between an individual and the adults working with them. They can also help participants feel more motivated to engage.

* Communication: Animal therapy can help with choice making and in developing speech and communication. Animals are non judgmental and communicating to and with the animals rather than adults directly can reduce pressure and anxiety around performance. 

* Bonding: Animals can help people build bonds without relying on language; building relationship skills, and developing empathy for others.

* Fine motor skills: Basic to complex fine motor skills are worked on while spending time with the animals; stroking and grooming them and while making them treats and toys and organising their housing.