The Science behind what we do

So what do the donkeys do?

Animal Assisted Interventions are goal‐oriented and structured interventions that incorporate animals in health, education, and human service for the purpose of therapeutic gains and improved health and wellness.

Equine assisted activity has been shown to have particular benefits for those with mental health conditions, physical disabilities and autism. Studies indicate improvements in emotional regulation, social skills and physical abilities.

Emotional Regulation and wellbeing

Horses and donkeys show high levels of emotional intelligence and can perceive human emotional states without the need for language. Animal interventions can help people develop emotional regulation skills, reduce anxiety and stress and improve emotional wellbeing.

Social Skills and Communication

Interactions with the donkeys can foster social interaction, improve communication skills particularly for individuals with autism or other social challenges. It can help people with impulse control and help them to have greater awareness of their emotions and non-verbal cues. It helps build understanding of reciprocity and boundaries in relationships.

Self esteem and confidence

Donkey interactions can help people build self esteem, confidence and a sense of accomplishment. It can help people become more assertive or more sensitive. Children build resilience and learn that progress is a journey. It is always a pleasure to be present at an "I did it!" moment!

Motor skills

The low level obstacles can help keep physical fitness and develop motor co-ordination in those with disabilities or neurological conditions.

Research has shown that it can improve balance, movement and walking in these cases or in physical rehabilitation.

The relationship built with donkeys can increase trust and communication so that people can talk about their concerns and develop a caring and safe attachment. The activities can improve motivation and engagement leading to better learning outcomes.

Interacting with the donkeys can evoke positive emotions, reduce stress and promote well-being. Studies indicate that equine interactions can lead to improved resilience and enhanced empathy and self esteem in young people at risk.

Donkeys possess an innate ability to form deep connections with humans. Their calm nature and non-judgmental presence create a safe space where individuals can feel at ease expressing their emotions and vulnerabilities. Through interactions with donkeys, people often experience a sense of companionship, trust, and unconditional acceptance.

Emotional Support:

Donkeys have an uncanny ability to sense human emotions, making them ideal partners for emotional support. They can provide comfort during times of distress or anxiety by simply being present and offering gentle nudges or soft brays. The act of stroking or grooming a donkey can release endorphins in humans, promoting relaxation and reducing stress levels.

Social Skills Development:

For individuals struggling with social skills or communication difficulties, donkey therapy offers a unique avenue for growth. Interacting with these gentle animals encourages verbal and non-verbal communication as participants learn to understand the subtle cues given by the donkeys. This interaction can enhance empathy, build trust, and improve overall social functioning.

Physical Benefits:

Engaging in activities involving donkeys can also have physical benefits. Walking alongside or riding a donkey provides opportunities for exercise and movement. The rhythmic motion of walking with a donkey has been found to improve balance, coordination, muscle strength, and joint flexibility.

Mental Health Support:

Donkey therapy has shown promising results in supporting individuals dealing with mental health challenges. The presence of donkeys can help reduce symptoms of depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The calming effect of being around these gentle animals can promote relaxation, increase feelings of happiness, and provide a sense of purpose.

Educational Opportunities:

Donkey therapy is not limited to individual therapy sessions; it also offers educational benefits. Schools and educational institutions have incorporated donkey-assisted activities into their programs to enhance learning experiences for children. Interacting with donkeys fosters curiosity, responsibility, and empathy while teaching important life skills such as patience, respect for animals, and teamwork.

Conclusion:

Donkey therapy is an innovative and effective approach that harnesses the unique qualities of these remarkable animals to promote well-being. Through emotional support, social skills development, physical benefits, mental health support, and educational opportunities, donkeys have proven to be invaluable partners in therapeutic settings. Whether it’s in a clinical setting or as part of community outreach programs, the healing power of donkey therapy continues to make a positive impact on individuals’ lives. So next time you see a donkey in action during therapy or activities, remember that behind those gentle eyes lies a powerful force for healing and transformation.