Meet the animals
The animals of The Willows
Our animals are at the heart of what we do. Caring for them, spending time with them, and simply being in their company has a profound effect on the young people we support.
Why animals matter
Animals offer something unique in a setting — they are non-judgmental, consistent, and respond to how we treat them. For children who have experienced anxiety, trauma, or difficulty in relationships, time with animals can be genuinely transformative. At The Willows, our animals are not just residents — they are part of the team.
Sports horse · 17hh
Bob
Big Bob
Big Bob is our gentle giant — a 17-hand sports horse with the most enormous heart to match his size. Despite his impressive stature, Bob is calm, kind, and wonderfully patient with the young people he meets. Interaction with Bob takes place over the stable door or obesrvation when he's out in the field, making it accessible and safe for children who may be nervous around horses. There is something quietly magical about standing next to Bob.
Horse · 12hh
Disney
The Princess
Disney is our 12-hand princess and she knows it. She loves nothing more than being groomed, pampered, and made a fuss of — which makes her the perfect companion for children who want a hands-on, tactile experience with horses. Brushing Disney, plaiting her mane, or simply spending quiet time with her is a wonderfully calming and confidence-building activity.
Chickens
The Chickens
Cinnamon, Pancake, Caramel, Toffee, Raffie & Bluebell
Meet our wonderful flock — Cinnamon, Pancake, Caramel, Toffee, Raffie, and Bluebell. Each one has her own character and all of them love to be talked to. Collecting their eggs is one of the most popular activities at The Willows — there is something genuinely joyful about it. Caring for the chickens teaches responsibility, gentleness, and patience in the most natural and rewarding way.
Cat
Gizmo
The Cuddly Ragdoll
Gizmo is our beautiful Ragdoll cat — and true to his breed, he is an absolute softie. He loves nothing more than being close to people and will happily settle beside a child for a gentle groom or a quiet cuddle. For young people who find it easier to connect with animals than people, Gizmo has a wonderful way of simply being present — calm, warm, and completely non-judgmental.
Cat
Willow
The Old Gentleman
Willow is our 17-year-old resident elder — and he wears his age with great dignity. He may be an old man now but he has lost none of his charm. Get close to Willow and you will be rewarded with the most wonderful, rumbling purr. He loves a gentle stroke and is perfectly happy to sit quietly beside a child, offering calm, unhurried company. There is something very special about spending time with an animal who has seen so much of life.
Want to find out more about our provision?
Get in touch to learn how time with our animals could support your young person.