services

Specialized animal therapy sessions for the elderly with reduced independence

Accredited continuing education courses

Speeches, podcasts, presentations and workshops at conferences and congresses in Canada and Europe

Zoothérapie

Animal-assisted therapy

Animal-assisted therapy, also known as zootherapy, is a therapeutic technique which uses carefully chosen animals to help individuals maintain or improve their emotional, psychological, physical, social or cognitive condition.

The animal therapist works together with the individuals, their family, the medical team and other health professionals (occupational therapists, physiotherapists, social workers, etc.).

Through animal-assisted therapy, we can stimulate, motivate and empower clients, actively listen and help them feel their emotions. These are important actions in clients' daily lives, helping them maintain and improve their quality of life in both the short and long term.

WHO IS IT FOR?

Our expertise lies in an approach adapted to the elderly. We work primarily with seniors in residential settings who are losing their independence and suffer from neurocognitive disorders.

Our follow-ups are personalized and tailored to individual needs.

Animal-assisted therapy provides innovative tools and creative activities that help us improve individuals' quality of life, increase their well-being and reduce some of the behavioral and psychological symptoms of neurocognitive disorders.

Our animal-assisted therapy sessions aid in sensory and cognitive stimulation, maintaining of mobility and motor skills and improving interpersonal relationships and communication. The presence of therapists with their partner animals also facilitates active listening and provides emotional support and a sense of empowerment.

HOW DOES IT WORK?

Depending on the goals of the session, animal therapy can be practiced with individuals or in a small group.

Inspired by the Patient Partner approach, our sessions are conducted in a way that takes into account and respects clients' needs and limitations, while providing the desired stimulation.

For each client, we develop a detailed intervention plan and after every session, we prepare progress notes.

To maximize the benefits of animal therapy, we recommend:

Regular weekly monitoring
30 min to 2 hours of animal therapy per week
Having access to the client's medical file
Being able to collaborate with other stakeholders, the family and health professionals

Formations

Continuing education courses

continuing education courses focused on best practices for seniors with neurocognitive disorders (Alzheimer's disease, vascular dementia, etc.)

courses recognized and accredited by the Ministry of Social Services (Czech Republic) and by the Corporation of Zootherapists of Quebec (CZQ)

training provided by an expert educator with more than 12 years of experience and two graduate degrees

certified Trainer & Consultant of Positive Approach to Care. This method helps establish a positive relationship with individuals who are disoriented in time and space.