Savannah started ‘Guinea Be Okay’ after noticing how much her small pets improved her mood
A counsellor has combined her passions for social care and guinea pigs to bring animal therapy to hospitals and care homes in Hull. Savannah Bryan, 28, has been working in therapeutic settings with both adults and children for more than ten years.
Following the sad death of her mum, she got four female guinea pigs as pets and realised their calming, gentle nature boosted her mental health and would make them perfect for therapy. Already holding qualifications in counselling, psychology, and social care, Savannah set up Guinea Be Okay and got certified in Animal Assisted Therapy.
Since starting in August, Savannah and the girls – Miley, Dolly, Vienna, and Angel – have been busy. The sessions are an hour and a half and feedback has been positive, she told the Hull Daily Mail.
Savannah said: “I initially got them three years ago. My mum passed away and I was struggling with my own mental health massively and I wanted a dog, or some sort of animal, but my landlord wouldn’t let me get a dog but said I could get a small animal.
“I never really thought of guinea pigs and then I got them and fell in love with them and they have really helped me. They still help me now when I have down days and always sit and watch telly with me on a night.”
Savannah said everyone she has visited for guinea pig therapy so far has “absolutely loved it”. Guinea Be Okay already has regular repeat bookings in the calendar.
Savannah said she brings along carrots and treats so clients can feed the guinea pigs. “It is nice to have the guinea pigs there because people feel a bit more open to talk and you can generate really nice conversations while they are stroking them,” she said.
The guinea pigs are very tame due to being handled a lot and are always up for treats. Savannah added: “They have all got very distinct personalities. Mine are all really different. The biggest thing people are saying is that it is really calming.
“One of the first places we went, a lot of people have dementia. I did a lot of research before I did it and apparently small animals are really good for people with dementia.
“Feedback I got from staff was they couldn’t believe how calm the residents were. When I took the girls in, staff said to me they couldn’t believe how relaxed everyone was.”
Savannah’s experience includes working for drug and alcohol services. She is currently a wellbeing advisor for people leaving prison.
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