Animal-Assisted Therapy as Emotional Healing for Children

The animal-assisted therapy sessions of the Op de Patten program help children overcome traumatic experiences with the support of donkeys, horses, guinea pigs, and other animals.

It has long been recognized that caring for animals contributes to improved self-esteem and overall well-being. As a complement to other therapies, animal-assisted therapy enables traumatized children to explore relationships, reconnect with their emotions, and rediscover themselves.

Guided by dedicated and specially trained psychotherapists, the children take responsibility for the animals while learning about their unique needs and behaviors. In this safe and nurturing environment, children gain confidence, learn to express their feelings, and develop better focus through caring for others.

Launched in 2020 by Solidarité Jeunes a.s.b.l., the Op de Patten project initially involved only guinea pigs. It has since expanded to include larger animals, such as donkeys and horses.