Aroha are a fantastic new charity in the Outer Hebrides, based in Stornoway.
Neuro Hebrides welcomed Blue, Moby and the Aroha Team to our Cuppa and Catch up this month to find out about Aroha and how they can help each and every one of us.
Aroha Animal Therapy and Wildlife Sanctuary is a new charity. Aroha was founded by Lily Mackenzie, a therapist for over 20 years with experience of working in the areas of mental health and trauma recovery.
Lily retrained in the non-talking support of Canine Animal Assisted Therapy (AAT). AAT can be really helpful support for people of all ages and from all backgrounds.
Animals can provide a deep social and emotional support for a person, as they are non-judgemental, non-threatening and comforting. Animal Assisted Therapy promotes stress reduction, self-confidence and can re-engage a person who is withdrawn, bringing them out of isolation. AAT has no barriers as animals make no distinctions they can connect regardless of a personal language, impairment, or challenges.
Aroha Animal Assisted Therapy Centre aims to make AAT accessible to any individual, group, or event. To empower people, promote mental health awareness and well-being.
There are 3 therapy dogs at Aroha:
Moby is a beautiful bulldog is very calming and can encourage a safe and relaxing interaction.
Blue is a Micro Pug who is small and such a character, perfect for people who like a dog near or to be in close contact.
Oz is a French bulldog who can spot heightened anxiety, and by using his body weight he grounds a person and keeps a connection with you until it lowers.
Aroha also aims to open a wildlife sanctuary and they are busy fundraising and they will have a dedicated team working towards the rehabilitation and release of wild animals.
Neuro Hebrides loved meeting Aroha and are so thankful for bring Moby and Blue to meet us, they immediately put a smile on your face and help to make you feel more relaxed and calm.
If you would like more information, get in touch with Aroha arohasanctuary@gmail.com