ANIMAL DAYS

Held on April 27, 2024, hosted by TV presenter Stefania Orlando.

An event dedicated to the animal world, explored through science, art, and play, featuring numerous educational activities for both adults and children.

The initiative is sponsored by the City of Matera and the Provincial Order of Surgeons and Dentists of Matera, in collaboration with the social promotion association "L’Ultima Luna"of Potenza and the Wine&Fashion Europe association.

Lo scopo dell’evento è di stimolare l’amore e il rispetto per gli animali perché, oltre a fare compagnia ad anziani, adulti e bambini, aumentano il benessere psicofisico di persone con situazioni di disagio o disabilità fisica e mentale. L’Evento a scopo sociale. Ingresso gratuito. The goal of the event is to foster love and respect for animals. Beyond providing companionship to the elderly, adults, and children, animals enhance the psychological and physical well-being of people facing hardship or physical and mental disabilities. A social impact event. Free entry. Conceived by Silvana Laviola.

Pet Therapy (or Animal-Assisted Interventions) represents an extraordinary emotional bridge for vulnerable individuals. It is not merely companionship, but a true form of care that works on multiple levels:

• Psychological Well-being: Drastically reduces feelings of loneliness, anxiety, and depressive symptoms by offering unconditional, non-judgmental affection.
• Cognitive Stimulation:For the elderly or those with disabilities, interacting with animals stimulates memory, focus, and non-verbal communication.
• Physical Benefits:Petting an animal lowers cortisol levels (the stress hormone) and blood pressure, promoting physical relaxation.

In short, the presence of an animal transforms vulnerability into an active relationship, restoring dignity and the joy of living through pure contact with nature.