Asinotherapy Program at Great Hill

January 17, 2012

Individuals in Latham Asinotherapy program have been working diligently to complete their training in the care of donkeys. On December 14th, 2011 another class completed the six weeks of training required to receive their certificate of level one care of donkeys. While caring for donkeys is not an easy task, a donkeys gentle and affectionate nature brings a calming effect over all who they come into contact with. Donkeys especially enjoy human interactions and this helps to lift the spirits of the individuals we support. Their nature acts as a type of magnet drawing all people to them.

Donkeys have the ability to balance and calm anxious, agitated emotions through gentle interaction. The visible lifting of a person’s spirit during donkey petting is typically immediate and significant. Some individuals have indicated their interaction with our donkeys has been one of their life’s highlights. Feedback from staff about donkey therapy has always been extremely positive and leads to making arrangements for the next visit.

Contributed by:
Elton Cutler
Residential Supervisor