The use of animals as therapy partners to help people recover from various physical and mental illnesses is not a new concept. What might be unusual is the use of insects and reptiles. We are not referring to butterflies and turtles here, but others in their genera that usually tend to make people jump in fright or disgust. Sure, El Indio (Gian Maria Volonte) in Sergio Leone’s classic For a Few Dollars More (1965) used a cockroach to keep himself calm, before eventually squashing it with his palm, but not too many would be keen to use that instance to claim that Indians were the first to use cockroaches in therapy.
According to a BBC report, people in Lincolnshire in England are benefiting from the use of “unusual” therapy animals at the newly opened 1st Choice Animals Assisted Therapy Farm in Spalding. The owner of the facility, Danika Clark, believes the animals help to calm people suffering from issues such as anxiety.
Clark said her daughter, who suffered from low self-esteem, had “found her confidence” through such therapy. The comment led The Snout to look at the whys and hows of unconventional therapy animals.
Cockroaches
Cockroaches are used primarily for exposure therapy, particularly in treating specific phobias such as entomophobia (fear of insects). Therapists may use controlled exposure to cockroaches to help patients confront and manage their fears. This method aims to desensitize individuals gradually and improve their coping mechanisms.
Benefits: Effective in treating specific phobias through controlled exposure. Helps patients confront and overcome irrational fears.
Behavioural Change: Can be integrated into cognitive-behavioural therapy to address anxiety disorders.
Ethical Concerns: Need to ensure humane treatment and ethical considerations in the use of live insects.
Patient Readiness: Patient readiness and comfort levels must be assessed before initiating cockroach therapy.
Allergies and Health Risks: Consider potential allergic reactions or health risks associated with exposure to cockroaches.
Rats
Rats are increasingly being recognized for their therapeutic benefits in various settings, including mental health therapy and educational programmes. These small mammals are known for their social nature and adaptability, making them suitable companions in therapeutic interactions.
Benefits: Facilitate social interaction and bonding between patients and therapy animals; Provide comfort and emotional support, particularly in loneliness or depression.
Behavioural Change: Supports behavioural interventions and emotional regulation.
Hygiene and Safety: Ensure cleanliness to prevent potential health risks associated with handling rats.
Training and Certification: Requires proper training and certification for therapy animals to ensure they are well-behaved and suitable for therapeutic use.
Patient Preference: Respect the patient’s preference and comfort level about interactions with rats.
Bearded Dragons
The bearded dragon, a lizard native to Australia, has gained popularity in animal-assisted therapy due to its docile nature and ease of care. It is used primarily in educational and emotional support contexts, providing a unique sensory experience for therapy participants.
Benefits: Offers tactile and sensory stimulation through interaction with a reptilian species; Promotes learning about reptiles and their care, fostering curiosity and engagement. Helps in reducing stress and promoting relaxation through gentle handling.
Environmental Needs: Ensure proper housing and environmental conditions for the well-being of the bearded dragons.
Therapist Training: Therapist has to be knowledgeable about care and handling of reptiles to ensure safe and effective therapy sessions.
Patient Comfort: Respect individual preferences and comfort levels regarding interactions with reptiles.
