Meet our animals
“Until one has loved an animal, a part of one’s soul remains unawakened,” French novelist Anatole France once wrote, and how right he was! It’s incredible how spending time with animals can brighten the spirit. Ever since Florence Nightingale and Sigmund Freud championed to bring dogs into therapy to aid patient recovery, the world of healthcare has opened up to the powerful therapeutical potential of the relationship between animals and humans.
The healing power of animals
Lowering blood pressure, easing depression, reducing anxiety, or lessening stress, are only few of the health benefits of having a cuddly friend around. Their emphatic, non-judgmental companionship creates a strong bond that eases the burden and fills us with “paw-sitive” energy. Pet owners know it, science proves it, and at NEOVIVA, you can benefit from it – be it through the inclusion of Animal-Assisted-Therapy (AAT) to our other evicence-based practices, be it by the opportunity of bringing your own pet to your treatment stay at NEOVIVA and enjoy the soothing company of your best friend during this special time.
Moreover, you are most welcome to enjoy the company of our four-legged NEOVIVA team members:
Bentley
Chief Food Inspector
Bentley is our stoic Beagle with an elite nose, impeccable snack standards, and a work ethic best described as nap-first. He spends most of his day asleep, conserving energy for his true calling: food inspection. Bentley responds exclusively to treats, instantly and without hesitation, and believes all important decisions should be made after a snack. Calm, charming, and proudly food-motivated, he ensures morale stays high and crumbs never go unnoticed.
Teto † R.I.P. (7 Sept 2008 – 15 Mar 2024)
Chief Compliance Officer (In Loving Memory)
Teto was a long-standing and deeply respected member of our animal squad, faithfully accompanying Oliver for 13 years. Don’t let her scruffy looks and classic Berger Picard stubbornness fool you – Teto took her role very seriously, keeping the team united, focused, and gently (or loudly) reminded of the rules. With her remarkable social instincts, she had a way of making everyone feel personally seen. When off duty, she could be found relaxing or proudly patrolling the grounds alongside our Chief Food Inspector – always watching, always caring.
Charlie
Chief Officer of Play
Charlie is NEOVIVA’s Chief Officer of Play, here to keep spirits high and paper supplies low. He specialises in joy, curiosity, and reminding humans to take breaks – preferably outside. His daily work includes walks, naps, emotional support, and the occasional unsanctioned paper-shredding audit. He is particularly skilled at boosting morale on difficult days, sensing when fun is required, and appearing exactly when snacks are nearby. Charlie firmly believes that recovery works better with laughter, fresh air, and a bit of mischief. His boundaries around rest are excellent, his enthusiasm for life is contagious, and his leadership style is calm, playful, and widely admired.
Pearl
Chief Grace Officer
Pearl is the elegant grandmother of the office, winning hearts with her kind soul and quiet charm. A devoted lover of cuddles, she gladly accepts every moment of attention with gentle gratitude. Now enjoying her senior role, Pearl specialises in restorative naps, calm companionship, and the occasional playful reminder of her younger self. A true lover of nature and all animals, she brings warmth, reassurance, and steady presence to the NEOVIVA team. With her serene temperament and intuitive sensitivity, she grounds employees and clients alike with quiet, reassuring ease — a comforting presence that makes everyone feel a little more at home.
Julie & Janusch & Lorenzo
Chief Comfort Officers
Meet Julie, Janusch, and Lorenzo – our three donkeys with a gift for calm, connection, and the occasional bit of mischief. Gentle and grounding by nature, they help soften even the most stressful days through quiet presence, brushing, and unhurried companionship. That said, they are not above a cheeky moment, a curious nudge, or testing boundaries in the most endearing way. Clients are invited to brush and pet them as a soothing, mindful experience, guided by patience, warmth, and a reminder that healing – like donkeys – can be calm, playful, and delightfully unpredictable.