Snakes, chickens and other surprising animals used in children's therapy

30 May 2015 - 23:47 By Aarti Narsee
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A member of staff demonstrates a massage using pythons
A member of staff demonstrates a massage using pythons
Image: Ulet Ifansasti/Getty Images

Animal-assisted therapy is relatively new to South Africa but it is helping to take the sting out of therapy for thousands of children who have suffered trauma.

The Sunday Times chatted to Annemie Daly, founder of non-profit organisation SixtyOneThree Trust, about some of the more unusual animals that have hopped, slithered and trotted into these therapeuticroles:

SNAKES

Snakes may seem a strange choice when comes to animal-assisted therapy, however it has been found that children with autism enjoy the deep muscular pressure on their skin when interacting with the reptiles.

Smaller boa constrictors are often used for therapy as they are not poisonous.

ELEPHANTS

Their gentle and protective natures, and keen ability to sense trauma in a child or disabled person, have given these large mammals a special place in animal-assisted therapy.

Children with special needs, including emotional problems, are able to learn how to better concentrate and develop self-discipline in order to form a connection with the animal.

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CHICKENS

Children with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) enjoy playing with chickens - particularly hens - giving them food and watching them nurture their eggs.

This often has a calming effect on the children.

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RABBITS

Interaction with a therapy rabbit can teach empathy as well as how to read body language. Floppy ear rabbits in particular are often used in play, art and spelling therapy, helping special needs children to better focus.

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DONKEYS

Less intimidating than horses, donkeys provide great stimulation and have a calming influence. They provide emotional support, especially to children who may have experienced some form of emotional, psychological or physical trauma.

The use of donkeys can help improve confidence, self-esteem, major and minor motor skills, core balance and give children a sense of achievement.

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DOLPHINS

Research shows these creatures can reinforce the human immune system, lengthen attention span, increase self-control and evoke feelings of compassion and self-assurance.

Their affect is especially noticeable on people with ADHD, autism, cerebral palsy and Down syndrome.

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Source: SixtyOne Three Trust, Equine Therapy Programs, The Dolphin Centre

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