When exploring new ways to bring joy, connection, and meaningful engagement to aged care residents or students with special needs, the terms Animal Assisted Therapy (AAT) and Animal Assisted Activities (AAA) often arise. At Angels With Hooves, we’re frequently asked about the difference between these two approaches and how our Therapy Ponies Melbourne visits fit in. Both are incredibly valuable, but they serve slightly different purposes—understanding this distinction helps ensure the right fit for your organisation.
Animal Assisted Therapy (AAT)
Animal Assisted Therapy is a structured, clinically directed program delivered by a qualified health professional, such as a psychologist, occupational therapist, or physiotherapist. In this setting, an animal becomes an important partner in the therapeutic process, helping clients work toward specific health, developmental, or rehabilitative goals.
For example, a therapist might use a dog or horse to help a client improve motor skills, reduce anxiety, or encourage communication. Every interaction is measured and documented as part of a client’s individual care plan. AAT is goal-oriented and results-focused, with the animal providing motivation and comfort during the therapy process.
Animal Assisted Activities (AAA) – Therapy Pony Visits
Animal Assisted Activities, by contrast, are less formal but equally meaningful. These are not directed by a health professional but are designed to provide social, emotional, and recreational benefits through safe, positive interactions with animals. At Angels With Hooves, this is where our Therapy Ponies Melbourne visits truly shine.
When our calm and gentle miniature ponies visit aged care centres or special developmental schools, the focus is on creating moments of joy, laughter, and connection. Residents may pat, brush, or cuddle a pony, share stories of past pets, or simply enjoy their soothing presence. Students may experience a boost in confidence by leading a pony, learning about its care, or feeling accepted and safe in the pony’s company. These visits reduce stress, lift spirits, and encourage social interaction—without the structure of a therapy plan.
Why Therapy Pony Visits Work So Well
Our miniature ponies are specially chosen for their temperament—calm, gentle, and comfortable in busy or unpredictable environments. Because of their size, they are unintimidating and accessible to people who may be frail, seated, or in wheelchairs. Whether it’s an aged care resident reminiscing about a childhood horse or a child with special needs discovering new confidence, our Therapy Ponies Melbourne provide a bridge to joy and connection that transcends words.
Therapy Pony Visits (AAA) - Generally More Affordable
Animal Assisted Therapy is generally more expensive because it involves a licensed professional and is usually delivered one-on-one with a client, meaning the cost is concentrated on a single individual. By contrast, Therapy Pony Visits (AAA) are more cost-effective as they can engage multiple people at once—such as a group of residents around a table or a classroom of children—making the joy and benefits of animal interaction more widely accessible within a single session.
Animal Assisted Therapy is generally more expensive because it involves a licensed professional and is usually delivered one-on-one with a client, meaning the cost is concentrated on a single individual. By contrast, Therapy Pony Visits (AAA) are more cost-effective as they can engage multiple people at once—such as a group of residents around a table or a classroom of children—making the joy and benefits of animal interaction more widely accessible within a single session.
Which Is Right for Your Organisation?
If your goal is to work toward specific health outcomes under professional guidance, Animal Assisted Therapy may be the right choice. If, however, your focus is on enriching daily life, reducing loneliness, sparking memories, and creating positive shared experiences, Therapy Ponies Melbourne visits through Animal Assisted Activities are ideal.
At Angels With Hooves, we are passionate about providing safe, memorable, and heartwarming visits with our miniature ponies. Our aim is to bring joy to those who need it most, helping aged care residents and children with special needs feel included, valued, and connected.
If you'd love to have a visit from one of Angels With Hooves therapy ponies, get in touch here
