Animal Assisted Interventions to support cognitive, behavioural, and emotional well-being

Animal-Assisted Interventions are activities that include animals as an integral part of a therapeutic or educational process. These interventions can take multiple forms,

including:

Animal-Assisted Education (AAE):

An animal is used as a part of the educational process, aiming to enhance development and growth through a structured and planned set of educational objectives.

Animal-Assisted Activities (AAA):

More casual or recreational interactions that involve an animal visiting contributing to the quality of life, stress reduction, and momentary joy.

Implementing AAI can bring about a host of benefits, affecting different areas of development:

Emotional Growth and Support:

Reduction in Anxiety: Interaction with animals has been shown to reduce levels of cortisol, a stress hormone, helping people to feel more relaxed and open to learning.

Emotional Regulation: The presence of animals can promote happiness and provide

comfort, helping people to manage their emotions better.

Social Skills and Relationship Building:

Enhanced Empathy: Caring for animals can help people to learn about empathy and

nurturing behaviour, understanding non-verbal communication and responsibility.

Improved Interactions: Animals can act as social lubricants, encouraging more hesitant

people to interact with peers around a shared interest.

Educational Enhancement and Cognitive Development:

Increased Engagement: Animals in the classroom can increase participation and

motivation, making students more engaged and eager to attend.

Diverse Learning: Animals provide a different context for learning, catering to various

educational needs and helping to develop a range of intelligences and competencies.

Behavioural Improvements:

Decrease in Disruptive Behaviours: The calming effect of animals can lead to reductions in

aggressive or disruptive behaviours.

Enhanced Self-Esteem: Success in tasks involving animals can boost confidence and self-

esteem, giving children a sense of accomplishment.

At hecadee we invest in our team, and are proud of our fully qualified PAWS Certified Trainer. This means that the trainer and Therapy Dog have undergone rigorous training and official assessment. 

All courses come with risk assessments, proper hygiene practices and safety protocols to prevent fear, allergies or injuries. Sessions are structured to provide important education and ensure safe interactions. 

Our Therapy Dog Programmes can support you on a short or long term basis and ensure accessibility and benefit to all.