'Animal medicine': Therapy donkeys help patients at French psychiatric hospital
Summary
Patients at a psychiatric hospital near Paris use therapy donkeys as part of their mental health treatment. Spending time with these calm animals helps improve patients’ emotions, communication, and social skills. The program, funded by France’s public health system, also includes other animals like guinea pigs and rabbits.Key Facts
- The therapy takes place at a psychiatric hospital in Neuilly-sur-Marne, near Paris.
- Patients care for and walk five donkeys named Nono, Pitou, Oscar, Manolo, and Malraux.
- Interaction with the donkeys helps patients with emotional regulation, communication, social interaction, and self-esteem.
- The therapy sessions are free and funded by France’s public health system.
- The animal therapy unit started with donkeys in 2016 and gained official healthcare status in 2022.
- The program employs three full-time nurses and receives help from volunteers.
- Some donkeys used were adopted after being neglected or mistreated.
- The program has expanded to include other animals like guinea pigs, chickens, doves, goats, turtles, and rabbits.
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