In Neuilly-sur-Marne, France, a unique psychiatric hospital program is utilizing therapy donkeys to support patients with mental health conditions. Situated within the Ville-Evrard hospital complex, the program offers a tranquil environment where patients engage with five donkeys, named Nono, Pitou, Oscar, Manolo, and Malraux. Patients participate in activities such as walking and caring for the donkeys, which many find therapeutic.

Animal Therapy in Practice

The program, initiated by Ermelinda and François Hadey, aims to have animal therapy formally recognized by the psychiatric community. Ermelinda, a nurse specializing in psychiatry, and her husband François, who trained the donkeys, believe in the therapeutic benefits of these calm and social animals. The donkeys, some of which were adopted from shelters, serve as mediators in patient interactions, helping to improve emotional regulation and social skills.

Patients like Nathalie and Jérôme have experienced significant progress through the program. Nathalie, initially hesitant, gradually gained confidence to interact more freely with her donkey, while Jérôme found relief from loneliness and routine treatment through participation in the activities.

Expanding the Program

Since 2022, the animal therapy program has been officially recognized as a healthcare unit, employing three full-time nurses. It has expanded to include other animals such as guinea pigs, chickens, and rabbits, tailored to individual patient needs. The sessions are designed to complement traditional treatments, offering a holistic approach to mental health care.

Despite the positive feedback from patients and caregivers, the Hadeys emphasize the need for scientific research to validate the program’s benefits. They hope that with further study, animal therapy can gain wider acceptance as a complementary form of care in psychiatric treatment.

Original reporting: WTVQ (Lexington) — read the source article.