NATIONAL CAMPAIGN · 2026

Year of Culture
Activity Ideas
Last updated: 26 May, 2026

Animal Assisted Activities

A practical toolkit to support safe and meaningful animal-based activity. Explores benefits, delivery, safety and person-centred approaches.

Format: PDF

Visibility: Member Only

Introduction

This comprehensive toolkit supports Activity Providers and care teams to plan and deliver animal assisted activities and pet therapy safely and effectively. It explores the benefits of the human-animal bond, including improved mood, reduced loneliness and enhanced wellbeing, alongside practical guidance on different approaches such as informal animal visits and structured therapeutic sessions. The resource includes activity ideas, risk assessment guidance, staff training, animal welfare considerations and evaluation tools, supporting inclusive, person-centred and meaningful engagement.

About this resource

Category

Activity Ideas

Audience

Activity Provider Activity Team Care staff Day Centre Home Care Hospital Intergenerational Managers Volunteers

Topic

Animals Nature Person-centred Physical Activity Reminiscence Sensory Wellbeing