Animal Therapy

Wellington SPCA offers animal therapy to members of the community who would benefit from the companionship of shelter animals and volunteers. Animal therapy volunteers make regular visits to retirement homes, hospitals, hospices, disabled people and youth at risk.

Animal therapy benefits both people as well as the animals involved. People might experience motivational, recreational and therapeutic benefits and homeless animals get the opportunity to socialise and become acquainted with the sounds, smells and events of everyday life.

Becoming an animal therapy volunteer

Animal therapy volunteers must be at least 18 years of age and must have a reliable vehicle and a current driver's licence. Volunteers are expected to complete at least two visits a month to maintain volunteer status. Animal therapy visits take place Monday through Friday.

Request an animal therapy visit

Visits can be arranged on a regular basis or periodically as requested. If you coordinate activities for a facility that could benefit from the companionship of special SPCA animals and volunteers click here to make a booking or contact the Education and Research Officer on 04 389 8044 ext 827.