Programs
Animal Companions Therapy Program (ACTP)
A structured, humane, evidence-based animal therapy program for children with physical, developmental, or emotional disabilities.
Program Purpose
To improve mobility, confidence, emotional regulation, and social connection in children through guided, hands-on interactions with small, calm farm animals in a safe, nurturing environment.
Calming & Sensory Regulation
Quiet barn or garden sessions with rabbits, chickens, or mini cows focused on breathing, warmth, touch, and rhythmic movement.
Mobility & Strength
Leading donkeys or llamas on short paths, grooming at different heights, and light barn chores.
Confidence & Independence
Children complete care routines such as feeding, brushing, filling water, and collecting eggs.
Therapy Animals & Their Roles
🐮 Miniature Cows
Grounding presence for anxiety and sensory processing support. Activities include brushing, slow leading, and bucket feeding.
🫏 Mini Donkeys
Empathetic and confidence-building. Activities include obstacle walks, halter leading, and grounding contact.
🦙 Llamas / Alpacas
Support social-emotional learning, communication, and boundary-setting through walking loops, grooming, and soft-touch work.
🐔 Chickens & 🐇 Rabbits
Support fine motor skills, sensory regulation, and lap-based calming sessions for children with limited mobility.
Safety & Welfare Protocols
For Children
- Parent/guardian orientation
- Helmets for donkey/llama walking
- Gloves for barn activities
- 1:1 high-needs support; 1:3 group sessions
- Emergency medical plan on site
For Animals
- Temperament-tested animals only
- Strict rest periods
- No forced interactions
- Positive reinforcement only
- Veterinary oversight and wellness checks
Sample Weekly Schedule
Monday — Sensory Day
Rabbit lap therapy, chicken holding, and feather sensory work.
Wednesday — Movement Day
Donkey walking loops, llama grooming, and guided leading.
Friday — Confidence Day
Mini cow brushing, egg collection, and feeding chores.