Learn about using animals in therapy

Places are now available on a course to explore how companion animals can be included in therapy.

The eight-day course will be held over two weekends next year in Oxfordshire.

It is run by The Society for Companion Animal Studies (SCAS), which works in partnership with The Blue Cross. The course will give people the chance to learn about animal-assisted therapy and how to include animals safely and effectively in therapy.

Occupational therapy technical instructor Sallie Bollans recently completed the course.

She said: “I originally undertook the course with a view to gaining formal recognition for the work I am currently involved with – animal-assisted training in stroke rehabilitation. 

“The course met all my objectives and explored areas I hadn't even considered. The wealth of information offered by such experienced, knowledgeable, professional tutors from a variety of fields, all passionate about their specialism, made it thoroughly absorbing.”

Pets as Therapy volunteer Helen Lee said: “I was inspired by the course and particularly welcomed the challenging moral and ethical issues it raised.

“The teaching was excellent and we worked hard but very enjoyably in a variety of ways that suited everyone’s preferred learning styles.

“I have no doubt that my work at the hospice will be more thoughtful and meaningful as a result of this course.” 

Teaching days will be held on Friday, April 23 to Monday, April 26, 2010 and Friday, September 3 to Monday, September 6, 2010. There will also be home study and a visit to a facility offering animal-assisted interventions.

The course costs £695 for SCAS members and £795 for non-members. Early bird rates apply to members and flexible payment options are available.  

For more information contact the SCAS office on 01993 825525 or info@scas.org.uk