That the corona crisis has caused quite a few societal challenges in recent months goes without saying. That the well-being of many is being compromised is a clear consequence of this. Loneliness, isolation, anxiety... you name it. Vzw Therapiedier and the Bunzboerderij have received an enormous number of inquiries in recent months and have therefore decided to join forces.
Both organizations find common ground in their unique approach involving therapy animals. They focus on AAI (Animal Assisted Interventions), where trained animals support existing or new therapies. As a result, both healthcare professionals and individuals with care needs can make use of their services. The complementarity of both initiatives lies primarily in the animal species they work with. Therapiedier vzw works mainly with dogs and cats, while the Bunzboerderij features trained rabbits, chickens, and alpacas.
“This partnership gives us the opportunity to be even more flexible in handling the large volume of requests we are currently receiving,” says Inge Pauwels, chair of the non-profit organization Therapiedier. “In some guidance sessions, it is also beneficial to alternate between the animal species that are ‘used.’ We also notice that some people connect more easily with one species than with another.”.
By the way, deploying therapy animals in times of corona is not a problem at all. A growing number of studies show that animals cannot transmit the virus. All visits and support that are currently taking place are organized in a completely corona-safe manner. The animals also undergo a health test and a behavioral test every year. If they fail these, they cannot work. Vzw Therapiedier [Therapy Animal NPO] also ensures that the welfare of the therapy animal is never compromised. Trained handlers closely monitor the animal. “Only animals that feel good in their bodies and minds can properly perform their task as a therapy animal. For us, it is very important to monitor that closely,” says Inge Pauwels.
Would you like to know more about working with therapy animals? Surf on over quickly to www.therapiedier.be
More questions about the collaboration? 0475 34 71 12
