A psychiatric hospital on the outskirts of Paris is using therapy donkeys to assist in the treatment of mental health patients [1, 2].

This approach introduces sensory stimulation and emotional support to complement traditional medication. By integrating animals into clinical settings, the facility aims to reduce patient anxiety and improve overall mood for those struggling with severe psychiatric conditions.

The program has been operational since 2022 [3]. It utilizes two therapy donkeys [1] to engage with patients under the supervision of hospital staff. Approximately 30 patients participate in the sessions each week [2].

Medical professionals suggest the animals create a bridge for emotional recovery. "The donkeys provide sensory stimulation that helps reduce anxiety and improve mood," Dr. Sophie Martin, a psychiatrist, said [2].

Patients have reported positive shifts in their emotional states during the interactions. "Being with the donkey makes me feel calmer and more connected," Marie, a patient, said [1].

Research into animal-assisted therapy suggests these methods are particularly effective for specific diagnoses. Jean Dupont, a researcher at the French National Institute of Health, said animal-assisted therapy has shown benefits for patients with depression, and schizophrenia [2].

There is some disagreement regarding the prevalence of such programs within the country. Some reports describe the facility as France's only hospital-based animal therapy unit [2], while others suggest it is one of several such units operating in French hospitals [3].

“"The donkeys provide sensory stimulation that helps reduce anxiety and improve mood."”

The integration of animal-assisted therapy into a clinical psychiatric setting reflects a growing trend toward holistic mental health care. By combining pharmacological treatments with sensory-based emotional support, hospitals can address the isolation and anxiety often associated with severe mental illness, potentially improving patient outcomes and engagement with traditional therapy.