Dutch psychiatric hospital uses donkeys as therapy-patients call it ‘like medicine for relaxation

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What the Donkey Therapy Actually Looks Like

The program at Frans Psychiatrisch Ziekenhuis (Frans Psychiatric Hospital) involves five donkeys who spend time with patients through gentle walks and petting sessions. Staff describe the animals as a natural stress reliever, particularly for patients dealing with anxiety or depression. Unlike traditional therapies, this approach requires no medication—just the presence of the animals, which patients say helps them unwind in ways talk therapy or medication alone cannot. The hospital’s decision comes as mental health facilities increasingly explore animal-assisted interventions, though donkeys are an unusual choice compared to more common therapy dogs or cats.

The donkeys arrive at the hospital complex for scheduled sessions, where they roam freely with patients under supervision. A hospital spokesperson confirmed the therapy is voluntary and tailored to those who express interest, with no forced interactions. The program’s success hinges on the animals’ calm demeanor, which patients describe as inherently soothing. One patient, speaking to Dutch media, called the experience “like medicine that helps me relax”—a sentiment that underscores the therapy’s potential to complement conventional treatments.

“Hetzelfde als medicijnen die me helpen ontspannen.”

Translation: “Just like medicine that helps me relax.

The Science (and Skepticism) Behind Donkey Therapy

While donkey therapy is rare, animal-assisted interventions are well-documented in mental health care. Studies have shown interactions with animals—particularly those with gentle temperaments—can lower cortisol levels, reduce anxiety, and even improve social engagement in patients with depression. Donkeys, however, are not typically studied in this context, which raises questions about their efficacy compared to more established therapy animals. The lack of peer-reviewed research on donkeys specifically means the hospital’s approach is largely anecdotal at this stage, though early patient feedback suggests tangible benefits.

Critics argue that without controlled trials, it’s difficult to quantify the therapy’s impact. However, the hospital’s decision reflects a broader trend: as mental health systems grapple with rising demand and limited resources, unconventional therapies are gaining traction. The donkey program may also serve as a low-cost, drug-free alternative for patients who struggle with traditional treatments. If successful, it could inspire similar initiatives in other psychiatric facilities, though scaling the approach would require addressing logistical challenges like animal care and staff training.

Why This Hospital Chose Donkeys Over Dogs or Cats

Frans Psychiatrisch Ziekenhuis stands out for its choice of donkeys, an unusual selection in a field dominated by dogs and cats. The decision appears rooted in practicality: donkeys are known for their calm, patient nature, making them ideal for patients who may be overwhelmed by smaller animals. Their size also allows for closer physical interaction without the intensity of a dog’s energy. Additionally, donkeys are less common in therapy settings, which may reduce the risk of allergies or phobias that smaller animals can trigger. The hospital’s choice suggests a deliberate effort to avoid overused therapy models in favor of something fresh and accessible.

The therapy’s design—structured walks and supervised petting—also aligns with evidence-based practices in animal-assisted therapy. Unlike spontaneous interactions, this approach ensures safety and consistency, which are critical in psychiatric care. The hospital’s willingness to experiment with donkeys reflects a growing openness to innovative solutions in mental health, even when the science is still emerging.

What Comes Next for Donkey Therapy?

For now, the donkey therapy at Frans Psychiatrisch Ziekenhuis remains a pilot program, with no immediate plans for expansion. However, the hospital has indicated it will monitor patient outcomes and gather data to assess the therapy’s long-term benefits. If the initial results are positive, the program could serve as a model for other facilities looking to incorporate animal-assisted therapies in creative ways. The bigger question is whether donkeys will become a mainstream therapy tool—or remain a niche experiment.

One potential hurdle is the lack of standardized protocols for donkey therapy. Unlike dog therapy, which has established guidelines from organizations like the American Humane Association, donkey-assisted programs would need to develop their own safety and training frameworks. This could involve partnerships with animal welfare groups, veterinary oversight, and possibly even academic research to validate the approach. For patients, however, the immediate appeal is clear: a therapy that feels natural, drug-free, and deeply calming.

As mental health care continues to evolve, programs like this highlight a shift toward holistic, patient-centered treatments. Whether donkeys become a staple in psychiatric hospitals or remain a quirky success story depends on how well the evidence stacks up—and how much patients continue to find relief in their gentle presence.

For readers considering animal-assisted therapy, consult your healthcare provider to explore options that align with your treatment plan.