From Alpacas to Horses: How Animals Help in Therapy and Healing?

Written by: Munirah binti Mohamad Nizam | Credit: Bernadette Winter, The Star

Credit:The Star

SUMMARY OF THE NEWS:

3 August 2026

Scientific research indicates that contact with animals can contribute positively to the treatment of various mental health and cognitive conditions, including depression, anxiety disorders, autism, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), stress, and dementia. This specialized treatment is known as Animal-Assisted Therapy (AAT), in which specially trained animals are used as core components of medical interventions guided by qualified specialists such as psychotherapists, occupational therapists or physiotherapists.

Interactions with animals, including doing activities such as walking, stroking, feeding or observing them are proven to help individuals achieve peace of mind, stabilise mood and improve social interaction. Research explains these positive effects with the release of oxytocin, a hormone that reduces stress, fosters social bonding and trust. Other than that, the positive effects of AAT extend beyond emotional health. Specialized treatment such as hippotherapy with horses is said not only could improve social skills but are also useful for the child's physical benefits, improving their core strength, balance and sensory integration through the rhythmic movement.

AAT involves the intervention of a wide range of species. Animals like dogs and horses are most frequently utilized in this therapy. Other alternative animals, including donkeys, llamas and alpacas are also utilized as they offer gentle nature and calming presence, which provide support for the recovery and healing process. However, not all animals are suitable to be used in this therapy. According to the German Animal Welfare Association, domestic animals such as rabbits and guinea pigs are unsuitable for this therapy as being picked up and cuddled might cause significant stress to them.

Despite its effectiveness, the practice of AAT requires strict compliance with animal welfare guidelines and ethical standards. Organisations like ISAAT and the European Society for Animal-Assisted Therapy (ESAAT) emphasize that therapy should be conducted by licensed professionals with additional training in animal-assisted therapy. Therapists also need to have sufficient experience, as this allows them to recognise stress signals in animals, provide sufficient breaks and retreat places when necessary. Added to that, the therapist should also follow proper hygiene and transport protocols

Source:https://www.thestar.com.my/lifestyle/living/2026/08/03/when-your-therapist-is-an-alpaca-how-helpful-are-animals-in-therapy