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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Media Backgrounder

FAQ

Logo and Tagline

Potential Feature Story Ideas

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Media Clips

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Organization in Action

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Media Backgrounder
Animals as Natural Therapy
Press Contact: Leah Adair, Brendan Herron, Sascha Guenther-Schlesinger
Overview:
Animals as Natural Therapy is a nonprofit organization based out of Bellingham, Washington,
that is dedicated to creating opportunities for healing and empowerment through interactive
animal-centered bonding for youth, veterans and families. Together the members of Animals as
Natural Therapy work to achieve their mission of strengthening their community by developing
healthy, resilient individuals through animal-assisted education and personal growth. Animals
as Natural Therapy wants people to know that there are programs and services are available for
individuals seeking assistance despite low income. The organization will not turn anyone away
due to the inability to pay.

With the backing of Catholic Community Services, Animals as Natural Therapy was established
in 1999 by Sonja Wingard, Abby Soley and Gwen Hunter at the Windy Acres Farm in
Bellingham, Washington. Their goal was to provide a place where people could heal with the
help of animal partners. The organization is composed of roughly 15 members and more than 60
volunteers who assist the program participants and care for the animals each week. Over the
course of almost two decades, they have served thousands of adults and children. Helpful links:
Website: animalsasNaturalTherapy.org
Facebook: Animals as Natural Therapy
YouTube: Animals as Natural Therapy
Twitter: @ANT_Bellingham
Instagram: ANT_Bellingham
Current Activities:
Animals as Natural Therapy is the result of community members who have joined together over
the past 17 years in their efforts to provide a peaceful and secluded environment for animals and
humans to work together through animal-assisted education. Their current focus is to create
awareness through community collaborations that will encourage involvement of new
participants, volunteers, mentors and donors. Animals as Natural Therapy engages in
community outreach by hosting a variety of events throughout the year, often multiple per
month, from fundraisers to community involvement days. They are currently preparing for the
Shining Stars Gala which will take place February 25, 2017.

Key Terms:
Equine, as an adjective, modifies terms relating to or affecting horses.
Animal-assisted education/therapy involves animals as a form of treatment intended to improve
a patient's social, emotional or cognitive functioning.
Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship (PATH) certifies and accredits
individuals to teach and provide safe, optimal outcomes in equine-assisted therapies for
individuals with special needs.
Facts:
Veterans and PTSD
The estimated lifetime prevalence of PTSD in men is 30.9 percent for Vietnam veterans and 10.1
percent for Gulf War veterans. [iii] [iv]

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In 2008, the current prevalence of PTSD in Veterans of Iraq and
Afghanistan was 13.8 percent.[v]
In the past year alone the number of diagnosed cases of PTSD in the
military rose 50 percent. [vi]
Effectiveness of animal assisted therapy
Animal assisted therapy has significantly impacted survivors of trauma by helping to lower their
anxiety and increase trust building by the unconditional acceptance and support provided by
trained animals and their handlers.[i]
Research Center for Human and Animal Interaction notes that interacting with animals releases
more of the hormone oxytocin. This hormone helps humans feel happy and help to gain the
feeling of trust. When the amount of oxytocin increases in the body this has also shown to help
in healing processes and rebuild cells.[ii]
The most commonly reported outcome from animal assisted therapy for trauma is a reduction in
depression symptoms, while the second most commonly reported outcome from animal assisted
therapy for trauma is a reduction in PTSD symptoms.
In a research project done by UCLA Medical School the use of pet therapy can help strengthen
social skills for those suffering with autism or PTSD. Particularly, they saw kids with autism
vastly improve in their social skills by communicating with animals.
Research Center for Human and Animal Interaction notes that interacting with animals releases
more of the hormone oxytocin. This hormone helps humans feel happy and help to gain the
feeling of trust. When the amount of oxytocin increases in the body this has also shown to help
in healing processes and rebuild cells. [x]

The cost of treatment

Among the 4.9 million adults aged 18 or older who reported an unmet need for mental health
care and did not receive mental health services in the past year, half said it was due to their
inability to afford care. [vii]
The annual cost to society of anxiety disorders is estimated to be significantly over $42.3 billion,
often due to misdiagnosis and under treatment. [v]
Approximately 38 percent of the homeless population in Bellingham suffers from some kind of
mental illness. [viii]
According to the Federation of European Companion Animal Veterinary Association (FECAVA)
there is a direct correlation between having a pet (or interacting with animals) and how much
money is saved on medical bills [ix]
For those requiring surgery, post hospitalization fees are significantly reduced due to the faster
recovery time induced by interaction with animals.

Short Bios:
Sonja Wingard - Executive Director / Lead Instructor
Sonja Wingard founded Animals as Natural Therapy and has more
than 30 years of experience working with people and animals as a
registered nurse, 4-H leader, equine specialist and riding instructor.
Sonja has a special love for young people and the elderly and enjoys
bringing them together through ANTs intergenerational programs.
Email: director@animalsasnaturaltherapy.org
Phone: (360) 671-3509

Lorna Shepardson - Resident Mental

Health Counselor
Lorna Shepardson is the Equine-Facilitated counselor at Animals as
Natural therapy. She is an avid rider who has worked for over a decade
in social services with children, at-risk youth, individuals and families.
She is passionate in supporting individuals in the personal growth
while empowering them to improve their mind-body awareness.
Email: TherapyNMotion@msn.com
Phone: (360) 303-2973
Boiler Plate:
Animals as Natural Therapy, a Bellingham, Washington, nonprofit founded in 1999 by Sonja
Wingard, Abby Soley and Gwen Hunter. Animals as Natural Therapy is dedicated to
empowering individuals of all ages through honest relationships developed with animal
partners. Their programs challenge participants, many with minimal income and opportunities,
to expand their horizons in a safe, nurturing environment. Animals as Natural Therapy has
approximately 15 members and more than 60 volunteers who assist the program participants
and care for the animals each week. For more information, visit their website at:
animalsasnaturaltherapy.org
Sources:
[i] O'Haire, Marguerite E., Noemie A. Guerin, and Alison C. Kirkham (2015). Animal-Assisted
Intervention for Trauma: A Systematic Literature .
[ii] National Center For Health Research (2016) "The Benefits of Pets for Human Health National
Center for Health Research." Accessed October 11, 2016. http://center4research.org/healthy-livingprevention/pets-and-health-the-impact-of-companion-animals/.
[iii] Kulka, R.A., Schlenger, W.A., Fairbanks, J.A., Hough, R.L., Jordan, B.K., Marmar, C.R., ... Cranston,
A.S. (1990). Trauma and the Vietnam War generation: Report of findings from the National Vietnam
Veterans Readjustment Study. New York: Brunner/Mazel.
[iv] Kang, H.K., Natelson, B.H., Mahan, C.M., Lee, K.Y., & Murphy, F.M. (2003). Post-Traumatic Stress
Disorder and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome-like illness among Gulf War Veterans: A population-based
survey of 30,000 Veterans. American Journal of Epidemiology, 157(2):141-148.
[v] Tanielian, T. & Jaycox, L. (Eds.). (2008). Invisible Wounds of War: Psychological and Cognitive
Injuries, Their Consequences, and Services to Assist Recovery. Santa Monica, CA: RAND Corporation.
[vi] Copeland, W.E., Keeler, G., Angold, A., Costello, E.J. (2007). Traumatic events and posttraumatic
stress in childhood. Archives of General Psychiatry, 64 (5): 577-584.
[vii] Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (2012). Results from the 2011 National
Survey on Drug Use and Health: Mental Health Findings, NSDUH Series H-45, HHS Publication No.
(SMA) 12-4725.
[viii] Whatcom County Coalition to End Homelessness (2016). Whatcom Country Health Department,
City of Bellingham, and Whatcom Homeless Service Center at Opportunity Council. "Whatcom County
Coalition to End Homelessness 2016 Annual Report." June 2016.
[ix] FECAVA Council. "Health Benefits (socioeconomic Value) of Companion Ownership." March
28, 2009. Accessed October 10, 2016. http://www.fecava.org/sites/default/files/files/Health
benefits ( socio-economic) of companion animals.pdf.
[x] @NC4HR. "The Benefits of Pets for Human Health - National Center for Health Research ."
National Center For Health Research. 2016. Accessed October 11, 2016.
http://center4research.org/healthy-living-prevention/pets-and-health-the-impact-of-companionanimals/.

Top 10 Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is Animals as Natural Therapy?
We are a nonprofit organization that utilizes animal-centered bonding to promote healing and
empowerment for struggling youth, veterans and families from all backgrounds. Our goal is to
promote growth and help build skills that will last a lifetime.
2. How can animal therapy help me?
Animals as Natural Therapy can provide a welcoming space that promotes the animal human
bond. Using animals as a form of therapy is known to increase both health and happiness. We
focus on not only providing you with a new furry best friend but also important life skills.
3. What kind of programs are available?
Our programs and camps cater to all ages and needs:
EAGLE - Serves returning Veterans and their families in group or individual sessions. Many

individuals are affiliated with the Wounded Warrior Project.

Safety Net Project - Works with youth and families who have been identified as needing

alternative interventions, both self-referred and sent by community organizations and

professionals.
Learning Life Project - Collaborates with schools serving students through both Equine

(EAGAL) and Intergenerational Growth and Learning (IGAL) methods.

New Horizons Project - Serves youth in recovery from chemical addictions, predominantly

teen women living at Sea Mar Visions Treatment Center.

CLAY Project (Continuous Learning for Adults) - Serves adults through experiential learning

programs such as The Horse as Guide workshops and leadership trainings.

Mobile ANT - Involves teaming youth with animals and creating intergenerational

awareness, respect and friendships while visiting elders in care facilities, families living in
shelters and various community events.
To learn more about these programs and to find out how you can get involved, visit our
programs page:
animalsasnaturaltherapy.org/programs/
4. What is the cost of animal therapy?
We primarily serve community members from low-income backgrounds. Therefore we actively
try to subsidize the cost of our treatment with the help of generous donations. It is our goal to
not turn away anyone who is seeking treatment, but cannot afford it.
For more information on cost, visit our forms page:
animalsasnaturaltherapy.org/forms/

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5. How wide ranging is your impact?
Our organization impacts the community directly. In 2016 we helped
hundreds of individuals, and we want you to be a part of it.

Recovery Teens: 55
Safety Net Youth Aged 3-18: 208
School Outreach and Camps: 2,400
Veterans: 12
Elders and Mobile Animals as Natural Therapy: 560
Parents and Guardians of participants: 44

6. Are there opportunities to volunteer?

Yes, and wed love to have you!
Getting involved is easy--but first, some initial paperwork is in order before you can begin:

Background Check
Confidentiality Drug Policy
Health History
Medical Authorization
New Volunteer Information and Release Form

Links to these forms can be found on our volunteer page, visit:

animalsasnaturaltherapy.org/get-involved/volunteer/
7. Any special preparation needed before coming out to the farm?
Here are some quick tips on how to be prepared before you join us on the farm:
Shoes or boots with a hard sole are best. Please avoid open toed shoes or sandals. We have

some boots and used socks are provided in the barn for those who need better attire.
Check the weather before you come out so you can be as prepared as possible. Dress in layers
if its chilly outside and bring rain gear if there is a chance of rain.
For warmer conditions, we suggest a hat with a brim or visor and sunscreen to protect you
while out in the sun.
Hydration is key. We recommend bringing a water bottle.
Lastly, bring a smile and relaxwe will take care of the rest!

8. Does Animals as Natural Therapy host events I can attend?

We host a variety of events throughout the year, often multiple per month including:

Farm tours
Camps
Corporate events
Charity rides
Bluegrass bashes
Fundraisers
Community involvement days and more!

To stay informed on more upcoming events, visit our events calendar page:
nimalsasnaturaltherapy.org/events-calendar/
9. What can I donate?
We assist hundreds of people each year and we couldnt do it without your help!
If youre thinking about donating, we have a wish list of our most direct needs:

White copy paper

Postage Stamps
Quality hay, alfalfa and senior feed donations
Horse mane and tail brushes
Round shovels
Large wheelbarrow
Hot and cold drink mixes (hot cocoa, lemonade, etc.)
Lightly used cowboy boots of any size

For a more extensive list, visit our wish list page:

animalsasnaturaltherapy.org/wish-list/
Thank you for donating! We accept donations by direct payment or through Network for Good,
PayPal, debit/credit cards or mail. Shopping through Fred Meyer community rewards and
Amazon Smile can help as well.
10. How do I contact Animals as Natural Therapy?
The best way to contact us is directly at (360) 671-3509 or come out to the farm. We are only five
minutes away from Bellinghams Barkley Village making it easy access for most of our clients.
Our address is:
721 Vann Wyck, Rd. Bellingham, WA 98229
More information can be found at our website, Facebook or Twitter.

Logo and Tagline

Below you will find examples of how the Animals as Natural Therapy logo is to be used for all
promotional materials. There are three iterations of the Animals as Natural Therapy logo that
can be used. The main logo is green (Hex Color Code #056736) and should be incorporated into
organization materials whenever possible. A lighter shade of green (Hex Color Code #008000)
should be used with headings, in order to make text easier to read. Black should be used for all
body text.

The two alternative versions of the logo feature black (Hex Color Code #000000) and white
(Hex Color Code #ffffff). These logos should be used in any documents or materials that are
black and white only, rather than a grayscale version of the green logo. Additionally, these logos
should be applied on promotional materials where there is no solid white background.

The tagline of Animals as Natural Therapy is Animals Heal Hearts. The logo and tagline
should not be used in any capacity for purposes other than promoting Animals as Natural
Therapy. For any questions regarding the logo standards, contact Animals as Natural Therapy.

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Potential Feature Stories

Director/president profile: President and co-founder of Animals as Natural Therapy,
Sonja Wingard, was a local nurse before deciding to start the nonprofit organization 11 years
ago. In her 35 years of caring for troubled veterans and youth she witness time-and-time again
the behavioral changes experienced by her patients when interacting with animals. A horse
owner herself, Wingard felt the overwhelming joy that comes with interacting with animals.
Using her knowledge cultivated from many years of nursing and her own experience with
animals, Wingard decided to make Animals as Natural Therapy her full time job. Sonja has a
special place in her heart for the youth and elderly which makes every day at her farm a truly life
changing experience.
Member/customer/beneficiary story: Animals as Natural Therapy strives to provide
affordable and effective treatment options. As a result, most people they serve come from lowincome backgrounds. In particular, they work with youth who are part of Safety Net programs or
who live in group homes. Oftentimes these youth have been ineffectively treated using a variety
of methods to overcome past emotional trauma and mental illness. While animal assisted
therapy may seem like a last resort for some, it has been shown to be an effective method of
helping at risk youth to open up, be comfortable with themselves and be altogether more
integrated in society. Countless testimonials have been filed by youth whose lives have been
changed by the work of Animals as Natural Therapy.
Mission/issue story: Have you experienced depression, addiction or PTSD? If so, you are
not alone. Animals as Natural Therapy, a Bellingham, Washington, nonprofit has helped
thousands of individuals through a unique opportunity to heal and feel empowered by using
interactive animal-centered bonding and education. Animals as Natural Therapy works with
struggling youth, seniors, veterans and people with disabilities to help them develop
relationships and build interpersonal skills. This organization allows people to shed the armor
they have created in order to survive difficult times by fostering an environment to heal, learn
and grow.

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Media Clips

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Organization in Action
Photos of Animals as Natural Therapy:
Daily Training Session
The daily therapy session on the farm include riding with some of the many horses on the farm.
A popular technique counselors use to increase trust and build communication skills is coarse
navigation. During this time participants guide the horse threw obstacles and practice verbal
commands. At the end of the session participants are able to talk with the horses and recite a
prompted speech.
You agree to keep my safe and Ill keep you safe. If you make a mistake, Ill forgive you
and if I make a mistake please forgive me.
Horses are typically the primary source of therapy when on the farm but participants can also
ask to interact with the many rabbits, birds and mini horses. While this particular session was
happening with the larger horses, a much younger participant was guiding around one of the
mini horses in main stable barn. Our goal is to try and find animals suited toward your size and
personality for therapy sessions.