13/02/2026
Valentine's cwtches with animal interactive 😍
Our recent adult only Animals Interactive Wellbeing Event on 12th February proved to be a heart warming success, bringing joy, connection, and a real boost to mental wellbeing for everyone who attended. Organised by Happy Healthy Blaenau Gwent and hosted at the Georgetown Community Hub as part of the Keeping Well Café, the session celebrated the idea that everyone deserves a hug on Valentine’s Day—even if that hug comes from a friendly animal!
Animals Interactive provided an amazing range of creatures for visitors to meet, including a yellow python, bearded dragon, skink, meerkats, guinea pigs, a rat, rabbits, mice, a tortoise, a tarantula, and even a skunk named Mable. The stars of the day also included Magic, a rare black barn owl, and Raven, a stunning black and silver fox.
Nearly 50 people joined us, and the atmosphere was buzzing from start to finish. Many participants took the chance to face their fears, discovering confidence they didn't realise they had. Others simply enjoyed the calming, therapeutic experience of holding or interacting with the animals. What united everyone was the sense of happiness the event created—smiles, laughter, and genuine moments of connection filled the room.
Spending time with animals has been shown to reduce stress, ease anxiety, and lift mood, and this event truly demonstrated that. Every attendee left feeling lighter, brighter, and happier.
A huge thank you to Aneurin Leisure Trust and Blaenau Gwent County Borough Council for funding the event and helping us continue to support wellbeing in our community.
