The TAO Project was launched in 2006 and its main axis is its sea lion assisted therapy program, a pioneer and unique initiative in the world. It consists of therapeutic baths with these animals, currently conducted by an occupational therapist and the trainers, and intended for groups that suffer from different conditions and at risk of social exclusion. They take place between May and September when the weather is good, in a 15x20 meter pool adapted to the participants’ needs. The therapy program is divided into two seasons. The first few weeks, specific baths take place in which social organizations participate, such as associations, special schools, senior centers, etc. From June, we hold a more developed program: two intensive weeks of therapy with small homogeneous groups of four to six participants. Each session is divided into three phases: socialization, relaxation and interaction with the animals through games and activities. Entries to apply for participation are always open and can be formalized on the website www.fundacionriosafari.org. During the first quarter of the year, the therapist is responsible for making up the groups who will participate in the therapies in summer. No group is excluded from participating in this program, since the aim is that all applicants participate in therapy. These therapeutic baths are free for participants because they are funded by Río Safari Elche with the financial support of partner companies.
