Agape Ranch Hawaii

Animal Therapy

Living with cancer takes phenomenal strength and an indomitable will. We know that state-of-the-art scientific treatments are critical support measures as are proper nutrition and exercise. At Agape Ranch, we believe just as firmly in the healing power of faith and of animals. What do these last two elements have in common? The central tenet of each is unconditional love.

When we’re ill, a caring touch or a gaze into loving eyes can move mountains. Animals offer this and so much more. The body of research on the benefits of animals is large, and still growing. Powerful health effects have been reported such as significant reductions in blood pressure, higher survival rates in those with life-threatening disease, lower medical costs, less depression, reductions in perceived pain, and a greater sense of meaning and life purpose. Patients often report that caring for animals takes them “outside their disease” and gives them a more positive life perspective.

Without animals, Agape Ranch wouldn’t be a Ranch at all. Our plan includes having horses, sheep, chickens, llamas, pigs, ponies, dogs, and exotic birds. It’s not a requirement, but those Ranch visitors who wish to participate can take responsibility for the feeding and general care of an animal during their stay. The bond patients develop during this human-animal interaction is sure to be one of the most memorable experiences of their stay.

Please visit our Research & Resources area for suggested reading about animal therapy.

Agape Ranch, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) organization.