The Power of Paws: The Importance of Therapy Animals for NDIS Participants
For many people living with a disability, daily life can present a unique set of challenges that affect physical, emotional, and social wellbeing. While traditional therapeutic supports such as occupational therapy, psychology, and physiotherapy are widely recognised under the National Disability Insurance Scheme , one profoundly impactful—yet sometimes underappreciated—form of support is the companionship and assistance provided by therapy animals.
What Are Therapy Animals?
Therapy animals are specially trained to offer comfort, companionship, and emotional support to individuals experiencing a range of physical, psychosocial, and cognitive challenges. Unlike service animals, which are trained to perform specific tasks (such as guiding someone who is visually impaired), therapy animals are focused more on improving a person’s emotional state and overall quality of life.
These animals, often dogs but also including cats, horses, birds, and even rabbits, are gentle, responsive, and intuitive companions. Their presence can calm anxiety, encourage social interaction, and even reduce symptoms of depression or post-traumatic stress.
Why They Matter for NDIS Participants
For NDIS participants, therapy animals can play a transformative role in daily life. Here’s how:
1. Emotional Regulation and Mental Health
Participants living with mental health conditions, such as anxiety, depression, or PTSD, often find therapy animals offer a sense of calm and emotional grounding. The unconditional love of an animal can foster a sense of security and routine, helping participants manage emotional fluctuations and improve mood.
2. Social Connection and Engagement
Therapy animals are natural ice-breakers. For participants who may struggle with social isolation or communication, animals can ease interactions and promote community engagement. Walking a therapy dog or attending pet-focused events can create opportunities for meaningful social connections.
3. Improved Daily Routines and Independence
Taking care of a therapy animal, such as feeding, grooming, or walking them, can help participants build daily routines and develop a sense of responsibility. These structured routines often contribute to increased independence and self-esteem.
4. Sensory Regulation and Grounding
For participants with sensory processing challenges, animals can serve as a source of grounding. Stroking a dog’s fur or simply sitting quietly with a calm animal can soothe the nervous system and help regulate sensory input.
5. Enhanced Therapy Outcomes
Therapy animals can also be incorporated into more structured therapeutic interventions. Whether it’s through animal-assisted therapy sessions or simply bringing a dog along to a psychologist appointment, the presence of an animal can enhance participant engagement and reduce stress in clinical environments.
NDIS and Funding for Therapy Animals
While the NDIS does not typically fund the purchase of animals, it may support associated costs if the need is clearly linked to the participant’s disability and documented in their plan. This could include:
Animal-assisted therapy sessions with a qualified provider
Support worker assistance to help care for the animal
Allied health assessments to determine the suitability and benefits of a therapy animal
Participants and their support teams are encouraged to work closely with allied health professionals to document the therapeutic value and functional benefits of animal companionship.
Final Thoughts
Therapy animals are more than just pets—they’re partners in healing, growth, and independence. For NDIS participants, these animals can open doors to emotional stability, community participation, and improved quality of life. As we continue to champion holistic, person-centred approaches to care, the power of paws is proving to be one of the most heartwarming—and effective—supports available.