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Animals Helping People Services

Equine Assisted Learning sessions at Crosskennan Lane Animal Sanctuary offer an immersive and hands-on experience with our gentle rescue horses. Participants gain practical skills while benefiting emotionally from interactions with these compassionate animals. EAL sessions aim to create a non-judgmental, supportive space where individuals can openly explore their strengths, work on self-regulation, and enhance their interpersonal skills through guided activities. In each Equine Interaction Session, participants may engage in activities such as: Grooming: Learning to care for the horses, encouraging responsibility, patience, and attention to detail. Leading Exercises: Practicing communication and trust as participants guide horses in simple, structured activities. Mindfulness and Reflection: Engaging in mindfulness practices alongside horses, promoting relaxation, and encouraging participants to be present in the moment. Our facilitators are trained to tailor sessions based on participant needs and to foster an environment where individuals feel comfortable and empowered. Sessions are adaptable and can be adjusted in pace and focus, providing a supportive and impactful experience. Flexible Setup Our EAL program is suitable for individuals of all ages, as well as groups, including schools, therapy groups, and businesses. Sessions are particularly effective for participants with social, emotional, or learning challenges. Family members, support persons, or team leaders are welcome to attend or observe, ensuring that each participant has a comfortable and supportive experience.

Equine Assisted Learning (EAL)

Hands-on sessions with horses to build trust, communication, and teamwork skills.

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Therapeutic Interactions provide a safe and nurturing environment for individuals to connect with our rescue animals, promoting emotional relief, reduced stress, and meaningful social connections. During these sessions, participants can engage with cats, dogs, or equines in a gentle, non-judgmental setting, where activities may include petting, grooming, or simply enjoying the animals’ calming presence. For those unable to visit the sanctuary, we offer PETS Visits—Pet Enhanced Therapeutic Social Visits—where one of our friendly, trained volunteers will bring a sanctuary-assessed rescue dog to your location. These dogs are either permanent sanctuary residents or adopted dogs with the ideal temperament for therapeutic visits.

Therapeutic Interactions

One-on-one or group sessions with various animals, including PETS Visits (Pet Enhanced Therapeutic Social Visits)

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The Pony Pals Programme at Crosskennan Lane Animal Sanctuary offers a range of engaging, hands-on experiences tailored for children and youth groups. This program is designed to nurture empathy, responsibility, and confidence through meaningful interactions with our ponies. Each session provides a structured, supportive environment where children can learn about pony care, handling, and companionship, while also enjoying fun and educational activities. Pony Pals allows children to connect with ponies in a way that promotes empathy and understanding of animal care. From grooming and feeding to learning about equine behavior, children develop a sense of responsibility and gain practical skills while enjoying the gentle companionship of our ponies. Activities are tailored to be age-appropriate, encouraging personal growth and self-confidence as participants engage in both individual tasks and teamwork. Activities Include: Basic Grooming & Pony Care: Children learn how to groom and care for the ponies, understanding the importance of consistent, gentle handling. Equine Education Workshops: Fun, interactive sessions that introduce participants to topics like horse anatomy, communication, and wellness. Lead Training & Gentle Handling: Kids practice leading ponies, helping them develop confidence and coordination. Seasonal & Themed Events: Holiday-themed activities and seasonal events add extra excitement and variety, such as Pony Pals Christmas Party or Easter Egg Hunt with ponies.

Pony Pals Programme

The Pony Pals Programme at Crosskennan Lane Animal Sanctuary offers a range of engaging, hands-on experiences tailored for children and youth groups.

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The BRIDGES Project at Crosskennan Lane Animal Sanctuary aims to foster community inclusion, personal development, and meaningful relationships through unique group workshops and animal interactions. This project provides a supportive environment where community groups and businesses can come together to build trust, improve communication, and experience the therapeutic effects of interacting with our rescue animals. With flexible, customizable sessions, the BRIDGES Project is designed to strengthen bonds and promote growth among individuals and teams. The BRIDGES Project emphasizes the importance of Building Relationships, Inclusion, Development, Growth, Education, and Support. Through guided animal interactions and hands-on activities, participants learn about teamwork, empathy, and self-awareness in a relaxed, inclusive setting. Activities can be tailored to suit specific goals and group dynamics, ensuring that each session delivers a transformative experience that aligns with the participants’ needs. Activities Include: Team-Building Exercises with Animals: Practical, interactive activities involving equines or other animals to strengthen team cooperation and trust. Personal Development Workshops: Workshops focused on self-reflection, emotional resilience, and communication skills, designed to enhance personal growth and self-confidence. Animal-Assisted Group Interactions: Unique group sessions where participants interact with animals in ways that encourage empathy, relaxation, and open communication. Community Support and Volunteer Opportunities: Opportunities for participants to engage in volunteer work, supporting the sanctuary while enhancing teamwork and leadership skills.

Community Engagement: BRIDGES Project

BRIDGES Project activities are designed to build strong, inclusive communities through group workshops, animal interaction, and team-building experiences

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Our Educational Workshops and Training program at Crosskennan Lane Animal Sanctuary provides a diverse array of hands-on learning experiences focused on animal care and welfare. These workshops are carefully structured to foster foundational knowledge in areas like equine handling, general animal care, and welfare best practices. Designed for individuals of all ages, our workshops aim to build practical skills for those passionate about working with animals or those seeking a deeper understanding of responsible animal management. Workshops range from comprehensive on-site sessions at the sanctuary to external talks and presentations without animals, making our program accessible for schools, youth groups, and community organizations. Key offerings include: Introduction to Equines Course: A comprehensive 2-hour session covering equine care basics, stable management, and safe handling. Equine Handling and Care: Advanced topics in equine care for those wishing to deepen their expertise. Welfare Workshops: Cover animal welfare principles across species, including dogs, cats, and equines, focusing on humane practices. Working with Animals: Practical workshops designed to teach safe and effective handling techniques for various animals. External Talks and Workshops: Educational sessions for schools and community groups focused on improving animal care awareness without direct animal interaction. We invite schools, youth organizations, community groups, and individuals to join us for a valuable learning experience that emphasizes humane care, welfare, and practical animal handling skills.

Educational Workshops and Training

Offers workshops in equine handling, care, and animal welfare, suitable for schools, community groups, or individuals seeking foundational animal care skills.

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Our Storytime at the Sanctuary sessions provide a unique and therapeutic reading experience where participants can enjoy storytelling in the presence of our friendly rescue animals. This relaxed, non-judgmental environment helps participants boost literacy skills, build confidence, and enjoy the calming influence of animals. Ideal for children, teens, and adults, Storytime at the Sanctuary creates a welcoming space that encourages growth, connection, and joy through reading aloud. Storytime at the Sanctuary offers participants the chance to read to our animals, including cats, dogs, and occasionally our gentler equines. These sessions are designed to be calming and supportive, allowing readers of all abilities to develop confidence and fluency in their reading. For those with a love of animals or those who might feel nervous reading in traditional settings, these sessions provide a comforting alternative, with our animals serving as attentive, non-judgmental companions.

Storytime at the Sanctuary

Storytime sessions allow participants to read to our animals in a relaxed, non-judgmental setting, ideal for building confidence and reading skills.

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Our Mindfulness with Animals sessions invite participants to engage in guided mindfulness or meditation practices in the calming presence of our sanctuary animals. These sessions are tailored to create a tranquil and supportive environment, helping individuals reduce stress, connect with nature, and improve mental wellness. Perfect for adults or individuals seeking relaxation and therapeutic connection, each session is facilitated by experienced staff to ensure a peaceful and mindful experience. Participants can engage in gentle mindfulness exercises and meditative practices, accompanied by our horses, donkeys, or cats, depending on availability and participant preference. These animals bring a unique sense of tranquility and grounding, enhancing the experience of being fully present. Activities may include seated or walking meditation, gentle animal interactions, or quiet reflection, all designed to foster inner peace and mental clarity.

Mindfulness with Animals

Guided mindfulness exercises alongside animals, providing a tranquil environment to reduce stress and promote mental wellness.

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Our Teambuilding Sessions are designed to foster trust, communication, and collaboration within corporate groups or teams through engaging, animal-assisted activities. These sessions offer a refreshing approach to team development, where participants work together in hands-on exercises with our sanctuary animals. Each teambuilding session includes guided interactions with horses and other animals, with activities like leading exercises, group problem-solving tasks, and reflective discussions. Working with animals encourages participants to engage fully, communicate clearly, and trust one another, fostering a stronger team bond in a relaxed, natural setting.

Teambuilding

Designed for corporate groups or teams, these sessions utilize animal-assisted exercises to build stronger communication, trust, and team dynamics. Activities may include problem-solving exercises with equines, group tasks, and reflections with animals present.

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Our Volunteer Development Workshops equip volunteers with essential skills for sanctuary work, focusing on animal care, welfare, handling, and sanctuary operations. These workshops are an excellent way for both new and experienced volunteers to gain hands-on knowledge, with additional modules on leadership and teamwork for those looking to take on more advanced roles. Volunteers participate in structured training sessions that cover the foundations of working with rescue animals, including safe handling techniques, care routines, and welfare standards. For more experienced volunteers, advanced workshops delve into leadership skills, effective communication, and teamwork within sanctuary settings, ensuring a well-rounded understanding of sanctuary operations.

Volunteer Development

These workshops prepare volunteers for roles at the sanctuary and develop skills in animal care, welfare, handling, and sanctuary operations. Additional modules on leadership and teamwork are offered for more experienced volunteers.

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Our Art and Nature Workshops offer creative and educational experiences focused on animal and nature themes, combining artistic skill-building with environmental education. These hands-on sessions inspire participants to explore their creativity while learning about local wildlife, animal welfare, and the sanctuary’s mission. The workshops include activities such as pet portrait painting for beginners, birdhouse building with local wildlife information, and various nature-based crafts. Participants can learn artistic techniques while gaining a deeper appreciation for animals and nature, fostering both creativity and environmental awareness.

Art and Nature Workshops

Creative and educational workshops focused on animal and nature themes combining artistic skill-building with environmental education.

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Sensory Sessions offer sensory-sensitive participants a safe and soothing experience with our rescue animals, promoting well-being, comfort, and a connection to nature. The sessions are structured to be sensory-friendly, ensuring a calm environment with carefully managed lighting, minimal noise, and limited attendance. Whether it’s enjoying quiet time with cats, petting and grooming horses, or practicing gentle leading exercises with donkeys, each interaction is designed to be fully engaging yet calming. In the Cabin Sensory Sessions, participants can sit quietly with our cats and sometimes one of our dogs. The focus is on creating a soft, sensory-rich atmosphere where individuals can enjoy tactile experiences with the animals. This can be ideal for individuals who find traditional group settings challenging. The Barn Sensory Sessions involve interactions with our equines, providing a unique sensory experience where individuals can work hands-on, brushing, leading, or just being present with the animals. These sessions may include gentle guidance from facilitators who help participants engage in mindfulness exercises, which can be especially beneficial for relaxation and grounding. Flexible Setup Each session is customized to the sensory needs of the participants. Family members or support persons are welcome to observe nearby, allowing participants to fully engage with the animals without distractions.

Sensory Sessions

Sensory-friendly animal interactions in the cabin or barn

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Our Interactive Rescue Story Tours offer a unique, storytelling experience that brings visitors into the world of animal rescue and rehabilitation. These sessions not only share the heartwarming stories of our sanctuary animals but also provide hands-on, educational opportunities for all participants. Perfect for families, animal lovers, and educational groups, this tour deepens empathy and raises awareness about animal welfare. During these tours, participants will hear the inspiring rescue stories of our animals—how they found their way to Crosskennan Lane, their journey through recovery, and how they are thriving today. This experience includes a guided tour across the sanctuary grounds, giving visitors a chance to meet the animals and see firsthand the dedication involved in their daily care. Key Themes and Activities Photography and Storytelling Theme: Capture the unique personalities of our animals through photography while hearing their stories. Activities: Guided photo opportunities across the sanctuary to capture memorable moments with the animals, highlighting their resilience and individual journeys. Mindfulness and Animal Connection Theme: Engage in calming, mindful moments with animals, enhancing relaxation and empathy. Activities: Mindfulness exercises, quiet observation with animals, and reflections on the emotional benefits of connecting with rescued animals. Welfare and Care Basics Theme: Learn essential aspects of animal welfare, emphasizing the care and unique needs of rescue animals. Activities: Hands-on demonstrations of care routines, including feeding and grooming, designed to educate on best practices and animal health needs. Behavior and Communication Theme: Understanding animal behavior, body language, and communication styles. Activities: Observational exercises led by facilitators, focusing on reading animal cues and respecting their comfort and well-being. Art and Animals Theme: Use animals as inspiration for creative expression through art. Activities: Guided sketching or painting sessions, allowing participants to capture the unique character of each animal while learning their backstories. Art supplies are provided, and tutorials are available for beginners.

Interactive Rescue Story Tours

Storytelling sessions about animal rescue and rehabilitation

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Our Day Experiences provide immersive, hands-on opportunities for individuals, families, and prospective volunteers to engage with the daily operations of the sanctuary. Participants gain insight into animal care, enrichment, and the behind-the-scenes work that supports our rescued animals. These experiences are crafted as educational yet fun outings that allow participants to actively engage in sanctuary activities. Options include: Individual Volunteer Days: A guided experience in animal care tasks like feeding, cleaning, and enrichment, perfect for those curious about volunteering or learning more about sanctuary work. Own a Pony Days: Tailored for equine enthusiasts, this experience includes hands-on pony care, grooming, and feeding. Participants can choose an optional ridden element for an additional fee. Family Volunteer Days: Families can join together in animal care activities, meet various animals, and participate in short, informative sessions on each animal’s care and behavior. Each experience is designed to foster a deeper connection to animals, provide practical skills, and offer unique, memorable moments for all ages. Key Themes and Activities Animal Care Education Theme: Learn the essentials of animal care in a sanctuary setting. Activities: Hands-on feeding, cleaning, and enrichment routines, with guided support from experienced staff. Enrichment and Interaction Theme: Understand the importance of animal enrichment and well-being. Activities: Assist with interactive activities that stimulate the animals, providing them with mental and physical engagement. Family Bonding and Learning Theme: Create shared experiences that promote family connection through animal interaction. Activities: Family groups will have meet-and-greet opportunities with various animals, supported by short, engaging sessions on each animal's needs. Volunteer and Community Involvement Theme: Experience sanctuary operations first-hand and see the impact of volunteer efforts. Activities: Work alongside staff, get an inside look at sanctuary operations, and learn how volunteers contribute to the animals' quality of life.

Day Experiences

Hands-on experiences at the sanctuary to gain insight into animal care, enrichment, and the behind-the-scenes work that supports our rescued animals.

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