ÂNIMAS arose from an interest in the benefits of using animals in both clinical and social situations.
Because we were convinced that this cause would be extremely useful, we set about creating ÂNIMAS in 2002.
In 2004 we obtained IPSS / Institution with Public Utility status. Since 2011 we have been permanent members of Assistance Dogs Europe - ADEu, as well as ADI (Assistance Dogs International). So far, we are the only Portuguese association in this field to be a member of these organizations.
In 2018, Animal Assisted Interventions - International (AAI-int) accredited us as a training organization for Doubles in Animal Assisted Interventions.
Our mission
Provide Service Dogs and Dogs for the Deaf free of charge
Promote Animal Assisted Interventions programs
Carry out training activities
Produce scientific research papers
Vision
ÂNIMAS is made up of a multidisciplinary team that works to provide individuals with functional diversity with an enabling resource that increases their level of independence and self-esteem.
Values
Adapt the dog and its education to the needs of the beneficiary.
Carry out Animal Assisted Intervention programs that suit the physical, cognitive, behavioral and/or socio-emotional needs of the beneficiaries.
Safeguarding the welfare of animals during their life cycle.
Create conditions so that, during the development period, in the various stages of education, as well as after being given to the beneficiaries, the dogs are treated with all the care they need, obeying the principles of animal welfare and the ethical rules for the use of working animals.
Our goals
Promoting support
the social and professional integration of people with functional diversity with the help of Assistance Dogs.
Promoting social inclusion
and involvement, through initiatives aimed at audiences with special needs, such as people with Alzheimer's and children with autism spectrum disorders.
Raising community awareness
the importance of Assistance Dogs.
Defending interests
and the satisfaction of people with functional diversity who use Assistance Dogs on a daily basis.
Responding to requests
of associations linked to people with functional diversity for the allocation of Assistance Dogs.
Raising awareness
and educating audiences of different backgrounds and ages about animal welfare, adult dogs, and other key issues for society and its future.
Collaborate in processes
rehabilitation through Animal Assisted Interventions.
Promoting training
for health and education professionals to develop skills in the area of Animal Assisted Interventions.
Carry out research
resulting in publications and dissertations at different academic levels.
Educational programs
develop and carry out innovative programs to raise awareness of animal welfare and the environment among different audiences.
Spreading the word
through various means, the association's services and facilities.
Promoting excellence
operational, through efficient use of resources, optimizing costs in the different services of the Association.