Caring Companions

Coming Soon! Caring Companions is a temporary exhibition which will explore the life-changing and life-saving impact animals can have on our lives. 

Opening on Friday 25th October, just in time for Half-Term this temporary exhibition, Caring Companions will focus on animal assisted therapy or AAT. Widely regarded as the founder of modern nursing, Florence Nightingale was  one of the first advocates for AAT. During her lifetime she rescued many animals, most famously a little owl named Athena who would follow the nurse everywhere she went. While working at Scutari Hospital during the Crimean War, Nightingale introduced Jimmy the tortoise as a ‘ward pet’ for the wounded soldiers. She later wrote in her book Notes on Nursing (1860) that “a small pet is often an excellent companion”. Her insight paved the way for modern-day AAT, which has been gaining popularity and recognition ever since.

The exhibition will showcase assistance animals, personal stories and case studies, therapy animals, and the science behind it. It will be informative and interactive and perfect for people of all ages!

This exhibition is included in all general admission tickets. Tickets can be purchased online or in person.

Buy your museum tickets here: