Alpaca Therapy

Meet the Herd

From our cheekiest alpaca Dickie, to the charmer Harry, you get to meet them all and learn more about Alpacas

Alpacas are a species of South American camelid. They are related to Llamas and Camels but are much smaller. They are very friendly and curious animals and will welcome you to get up close and personal at your visit. As trained Camelid Assisted Therapists we work with them to enable adults with their mental and emotional wellbeing.

Alpacas greet others by touching noses, so they enjoy nose kissing when you meet them (especially Harry!)

Therapy sessions typically last for 1 hour and offer the following benefits:

• Emotional Regulation and Anxiety Reduction: Interacting with alpacas can lower blood pressure and alleviate anxiety. Their calm presence helps people feel safer and less threatened, making it easier to express emotions and process difficult experiences. 
• Enhanced Social and Communication Skills: Alpacas respond to human behaviour and engagement, and this helps raise awareness of our own body language. This encourages individuals, particularly those with social challenges, to improve attention, empathy, and communication skills. 
• Building Confidence and Self-Esteem: Caring for and nurturing alpacas fosters a sense of responsibility and accomplishment. Activities like feeding and grooming help build self-worth.
• Safe Touch and Trauma Recovery: For survivors of abuse or neglect, camelids offer “safe touch” due to their non-judgmental nature. Their gentle, accepting behaviour allows individuals to reconnect with physical affection in a controlled and comforting environment. 
• Development of Flexibility and Coping Skills: Because alpacas are emotionally responsive and not easily controlled like dogs or horses, they require adaptability. This teaches individuals to manage unpredictability, practice patience, and respond constructively to change – skills that generalise to real-life situations. 

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Where does the experience take place?

The Willow Tree Foundation is a smallholding based in Nettleton, Wiltshire.  The address & directions will be sent to you after booking.

2. Is parking available?

Yes we have onsite parking

3. Do I have to feed the alpacas?

Each experience is customised to your requirements, so you choose what you want to do during your visit.

4. Can I bring my dog?

Alpacas are guard animals so they will chase and kick any foreign animal that enters on their land.  So dogs are not allowed (including assistant dogs)

5. How much does therapy cost?

Adults are charged at £65 per person and the sessions are typically with one person.

6. What do I need to bring?

7. How can I change my booking?

If you would like to change or amend your booking, please email support@thewillowtreefoundation.com. Please note that we require 48 hours’ notice with regards to the changing or cancelling your booking.