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Grace Olson, a therapist and author based in Leeds, West Yorkshire, has uncovered an unexpected means of promoting emotional healing through her flock of pet sheep. Initially trained in equine-assisted therapy—which involves engaging with horses through simple care activities to encourage confidence and emotional well-being—Olson found that her therapy work took an unusual turn thanks to one particular sheep.
During a session with a woman mourning the loss of her husband, Merlin, a Texel cross sheep, unexpectedly became the centre of attention. “He pushed himself into her knee, and as she bent down to cuddle him, she laughed,” Olson recalled. “She hadn’t even smiled for a year. It was brilliant.” Merlin’s intuitive response appeared to resonate deeply, calming and comforting those in distress. Olson reflected that Merlin acted almost like “a person in a sheep’s body” who instinctively senses when someone is upset.
Over time, Olson expanded her group of sheep from one to five, all of which contribute to creating a relaxed atmosphere during therapy sessions. Her gentle flock helps clients feel at ease, encouraging openness and emotional expression. Much of her work focuses on supporting terminally ill individuals, particularly those facing cancer, with the hope that proceeds from her upcoming book will enable her to offer these therapeutic sessions free of charge.
Through this innovative approach, Olson demonstrates how animals beyond the traditional therapy dog or horse can provide comfort and aid mental health. Merlin and his companions embody a unique blend of intuition and calmness that fosters healing in ways that transcend conventional therapy methods
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