Donna Rose from GTKA on the healing quality of animals

Last week, we watched a stroke survivor use their arm for the first time in months to gently stroke a rabbit's soft fur. The tears in her eyes, the pure joy on her face - this is why Get To Know Animals exists.

Every single day at our sanctuary in Epping Forest, we witness miracles.

A non-verbal child suddenly finds their voice, whispering "I love you" to our gentle guinea pig. An elderly gentleman with Alzheimer's, who hasn't smiled in months, lights up the entire room when he cradles a furry friend in his arms.

These aren't just visits - they're moments of pure magic, healing, and connection.

People of all ages benefit from some time spent with the animals at GTKA (Image: GTKA) Our 300 rescued animals aren't just residents - they're our family, our teachers, our healers.

Many arrive close to death - reptiles bought as children's pets whose complex heating, lighting, and nutritional needs were never understood. Parrots left alone for years, so lonely they've plucked out their own feathers.

Squirrel monkeys Malcolm and Margaret share the love they have found at GTKA (Image: GTKA) But here, they find their purpose. Lacoste, our cheeky American alligator, was surrendered by overwhelmed owners. Now she plays football and brings squeals of delight to children who discover that even alligators can be gentle souls.

One Eyed Willy, our precious corn snake, teaches everyone he meets that being different makes you absolutely perfect just as you are.

Loneliness causes some birds to pluck out their own feathers (Image: GTKA) The healing flows both ways. We welcome weekly visits from schools and residential children's homes - youngsters from difficult backgrounds find peace and understanding here. Mental health hospital residents discover connections they've never felt before. People suffering from loneliness finally feel understood and valued.

Our Junior Zookeeper programmes spark wonder in young minds. Art classes help shy children blossom with confidence. Gentle therapy sessions naturally melt away stress and worry.

GKTA have regular visits from schools (Image: GTKA) Local charities bring their families to experience our safe, loving space where healing happens without effort.

Every cuddle, every smile, every breakthrough moment happens because rescued souls - both animal and human - have found each other.

Donna Rose sees how visitors benefit from being with the animals (Image: GTKA) In a world that often feels disconnected, we've created something truly special: a place where love heals everything.

In today's incredibly challenging times, keeping this magic alive takes as much support as possible. Every visit, every donation, every share on social media helps ensure these daily miracles continue.

Stroking an animal can bring out the confidence in children (Image: GTKA) Whether you come to experience the wonder yourself, tell a friend about us, or support us through donating via our website, you become part of something beautiful - a community determined to keep healing and hope alive for both rescued animals and the people who need them most.

To experience the magic, visit; gtka.co.uk 

• Donna Rose is the founder of Get To Know Animals (gtka.co.uk)