Between science and sensitivity, Reatech shows that animals play a leading role in innovative practices that stimulate bonds, promote well-being, and strengthen patients' autonomy
The touch of a dog, the rhythmic pace of a horse, and the attentive gaze of a therapist can say more than a thousand words. Combining nature, technique, and emotion, animal-assisted therapies are gaining ground as effective tools for rehabilitation, inclusion, and quality of life — and stood out in Reatech + Expo Brasil Paralímpico 2025, the largest rehabilitation event in Latin America, organized by Fiera Milano Brasil, in partnership with Brazilian Paralympic Committee.
During the event, two meetings held in São Paulo illustrated this trend: the PET Course - Animal-Assisted Treatment, promoted by GATI – Integrated Therapeutic Approach Group, and the Equine-Assisted Therapy Workshop from ANDE-BRASIL. While the former presented new therapeutic approaches with dogs, cats, and even reptiles, the latter showed how the horse acts as an essential partner in the motor and emotional rehabilitation of people with disabilities.
“Each species contributes uniquely to the therapeutic process. The animal acts as a mediator, facilitating bonds, stimulating communication, and awakening emotions. It is a practice that unites technique and affection, broadening the perspective on what it means to care, explains Ludmilla Machado, GATI physical therapist.
Animal-Assisted Therapies (AAT) are part of a multidisciplinary approach involving professionals in psychology, physical therapy, speech-language pathology, and occupational therapy, among other areas. Equine-assisted therapy, on the other hand, utilizes the three-dimensional movement of the horse to stimulate balance, strength, and coordination, in addition to promoting confidence and self-esteem—proven benefits in patients with cerebral palsy, autism, Down syndrome, and neuromotor injuries.
“Patient progress is visible when therapy involves animals. The bond that is created builds trust, reduces anxiety, and encourages engagement in activities. Often, what is not achieved in weeks of conventional therapy happens in just a few sessions with the support of an animal, adds Ludmilla.
The actions reinforce a growing trend within Reatech 2025, which brings together assistive technology, accessibility, sports, and innovation in the same space. This year, the event broadens its focus on nature as an ally in human rehabilitation, showing that science and empathy can walk — or ride — hand in hand.
“Reatech has always been a stage for new forms of inclusion. Now, we show that science and affection also have a place in this dialogue,” she highlights Maurício Macedo, CEO of Fiera Milano Brasil, the event organizer.
More than techniques, animal-assisted therapies symbolize a new way of understanding health: integrating body, mind, and emotion into a single process. Between the gentle touch of a dog and the measured stride of a horse, a bridge is born — one toward a more accessible, sensitive, and truly human world.
About Fiera Milano Brasil
Fiera Milano Brasil is the Brazilian subsidiary of Fiera Milano, one of the largest international groups in the organization of trade fairs and congresses, headquartered in Italy with a global presence, responsible for bringing together approximately 30,000 exhibitors and more than five million visitors annually at its events. With international expertise and deep knowledge of the local market, Fiera Milano Brasil offers strategic platforms for business generation, qualified networking, and trend launching, connecting brands, professionals, and solutions in innovative and highly professional environments. It holds a total of ten trade fairs covering various sectors of the economy, such as security, clean and renewable energy, tubes and fittings, cables, occupational health, rehabilitation technologies, inclusion and accessibility, among others. Among the main brands in its portfolio are Exposec, Fisp, Fire Show, Ecoenergy Congress, Fruit Attraction São Paulo — in partnership with IFEMA Madrid —, Reatech + Expo Brasil Paralímpico, in partnership with the Brazilian Paralympic Committee, Tubotech, Wire Brasil, TranspoQuip and Expoparking, in partnership with BMComm, and E-squadria Show — the latter held in partnership with NürnbergMesse Brasil.
About the Brazilian Paralympic Committee (CPB)
Founded in 1995, the Brazilian Paralympic Committee (CPB) is the governing body for adaptive sports in Brazil. It represents and leads the Paralympic Movement in the country and seeks to promote and develop sport from initiation to high performance for people with disabilities. The CPB is responsible for the country's participation in continental and world competitions and the Paralympic Games, in addition to promoting the development of various adaptive sports in Brazil, in coordination with their respective national organizations.
More information: www.cpb.org.br
