Feathers and Fur

The concept of animals playing a role in healing, calming and bringing normality in to what is sometimes a chaotic sense of self is not a new one. It has been suggested that Florence Nightingale would have used companion animals when treating the chronically sick. Today it is not uncommon for dogs and cats to be used when visiting hospitals, children’s wards and care homes.

Feathers and Fur offers this very opportunity but with a twist, how about George our Giant Rabbit enjoying a cuddle? Or a Barn Owl sat on your fist? Willow is always the first in line for a stroke and some fussing. Feathers and Fur is able to offer hour sessions where patients are able to really enjoy these unusual visitors.

Alternative Therapy

Not only are we able to offer the traditional petting of animals, but Feathers and Fur is able to take rehabilitation and treatments a step further. For those able to, Feathers and Fur can offer the unique opportunity to handle and fly Birds of Prey as an alternative therapy.

Case Study: Nicola Austin, Berkshire approached Feathers and Fur to begin with as an interest in Birds of Prey. Recently diagnose as suffering from acute depression Nicola was offered by her doctor a cocktail of medication to help her.

Nicola visited the centre the same week and was given the opportunity to fly Willow, the Barn Owl. “ It may sound silly and fluffy but the fact that I was stood in a field, with a Barn Owl on my fist talking to her like I had known her forever instantly gave me a boost. From sitting alone 24 hours ago to standing there I believed that anything was possible. I went on to fly the Harris Hawks and Tilia the Buzzard. The birds gave me clarity and made me believe that against all the odds I could change my view and my environment as easily as soaring the air and just finding a new tree to look from”

Birds of Prey break down a barrier that many don’t even see. The most popular question asked at any falconry event is why do the birds come back? This is a free animal, in most cases one that is very capable of hunting and surviving for itself. So why return? The answer is the bond, the trust the bird has that you will not hurt it. It makes a choice to land on a fist, it is never a given conclusion that it will do so, it has free will.

This choice is a moment of magic, a snap shot of bonding and trust that many never see in their day to day lives. Feathers and Fur offers these moments, breaks down that barrier and creates memories never to be forgotten.

Feathers and Fur Pet Therapy Sessions start from £55 for approx an hour. Please contact us if you are interested in flying sessions or would like to discuss individual needs.