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Animal-Assisted Therapy

Animals have a natural way of inviting connection. Their presence can spark curiosity, bring calm, and create moments of shared joy—often without words.

At Rewilding Speech, animal-assisted therapy is one of many ways we support communication that feels natural, meaningful, and alive. It's never about "performing" or following a script—it's about creating space for authentic interaction where communication can emerge organically through relationship and shared experience.

Child interacting with therapy goats

Why Animals?

Animals can help communication grow because they:

Invite joy and curiosity, which naturally spark communication

Offer comfort and regulation, supporting nervous system safety

Create low-pressure opportunities for interaction and expression

Encourage connection through shared attention, movement, and care

For many people, animals feel easier to connect with than adults or peers—and that connection becomes a bridge to communication.

Meet Our Therapy Animals

I currently partner with two Nigerian Dwarf goats, Larry and Otis. My miniature donkey, Joey, is learning the ropes and in training!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is animal-assisted therapy?

Animal-assisted therapy thoughtfully includes animals in sessions to support connection, regulation, and communication. Animals may be present as a calming companion, a shared focus of attention, or a source of joy and curiosity.

Is animal-assisted therapy right for everyone?

Not necessarily—and that's okay. Participation is always optional. Some people enjoy interacting with animals, while others prefer to observe from a distance or choose a different therapeutic approach altogether. Therapy is always shaped around individual comfort, preferences, and consent.

How does animal-assisted therapy support communication?

Animals naturally create opportunities for:

  • Shared attention and connection
  • Requests, comments, and observations
  • AAC use, gestures, scripts, or spoken language
  • Regulation and emotional safety, which support communication readiness

Communication emerges through real, meaningful experiences—not prompts or drills.

How do you ensure safety and well-being?

Safety, consent, and welfare are central—for both people and animals.

  • •All interactions are closely supervised
  • •Boundaries are respected at all times
  • •Animals are never forced to participate
  • •Sessions are adapted based on comfort, energy, and stress levels

What training do you have in animal-assisted therapy?

I hold the C-AAIS certification (Certified Animal-Assisted Intervention Specialist) through the Association of Animal-Assisted Intervention Professionals (AAAIP). This certification reflects specialized training in ethical, safe, and evidence-informed animal-assisted interventions, with a strong emphasis on animal welfare, infection prevention, animal behavior awareness, and professional best practices.

Does animal-assisted therapy replace traditional speech therapy?

No. Animal-assisted therapy is one of many ways communication can be supported at Rewilding Speech. It is always integrated thoughtfully into a broader, individualized approach that may include AAC, play, nature-based experiences, parent coaching, and community-based support.

What if my child (or I) feel nervous around animals?

That is completely respected. Therapy can continue without animals, or animals may simply be present in the environment without interaction. Comfort, choice, and trust always come first.

Get in Touch

Questions about animal-assisted therapy? We'd love to hear from you.