Animal-assisted therapy, or simply animal therapy, works by bringing animals into close contact with people and offering major boosts to both physical and mental health. Whether it’s speeding up recovery, helping with rehabilitation, smoothing out learning difficulties, or just lending some emotional support, these therapy animals provide safety, calm, motivation—and often make tricky conversations much easier. Specially trained animals and certified professionals lead these interventions, following strict hygiene and safety rules.
Dive Into Animal Therapy
On October 4, 2025, an in-depth event in Budapest (Budapest) will open its doors to anyone interested (with advance registration and payment). For those who want to join from home, video recordings of the lectures will be available to stream between October 6 and 12.
What’s On the Agenda?
The lectures break down the basics of animal-assisted interventions: how they work, who they’re for, and which animals are involved. You’ll get insights into the science—how our minds and bodies respond to these encounters.
Look forward to a deep dive into dog-assisted therapy, especially for adults facing psychiatric or addiction challenges. Wondering why dogs are in children’s wards? You’ll see practical examples of canine interventions in pediatric care, too.
Equine therapy, featuring real-life Hungarian (Hungarian) models, shows just how much horses can do in a healthcare setting. Plus, the innovative team from Kaposi Mór Teaching Hospital’s (Kaposi Mór Oktató Kórház) Child Psychiatry Department will share how they incorporate rabbits, turtles, hedgehogs, and more into their therapeutic work.
Info, Fees, and Perks
The in-person event costs $59, while the online program is $73. For doctors, dentists, and clinical psychologists, up to 12 credit points are available through a test. The program is accredited and fits many medical specialties, from addiction and pediatric medicine to occupational health and psychiatry. Other healthcare professionals can earn 8 continuing education points.
Organizers reserve the right to change dates or programs—so keep an eye out!
