Healing with Reptiles
Meet Zelda!
Zelda is my favorite therapy assisting tortoise. I met her in Israel in December 2024 at the Sderot Animal Assisted Therapy Center in Sderot, Israel.
I had never considered animal-assisted therapy with reptiles. Interestingly, there are several advantages to therapy with reptiles, including tortoises, snakes, and bearded dragons.
Reptiles do not have fur or hair that may cause an allergic reaction.
Tortoises, like Zelda, are slow, steady and predictable, helping to regulate heart rate and blood pressure. This may result in decreased anxiety.
Reptiles do not have to be entertained or walked.
While traditional therapy animals provide companionship and comfort, reptiles offer a unique connection. Their calm and predictable nature can be beneficial for individuals with sensory processing disorders. Reptiles require less physical interaction and can provide a soothing presence without overwhelming sensory input.
Check out more helpful healing reptiles below 👇
