'Animal therapy': Family uses unorthodox method to find healing after multiple family deaths

Mental health awareness in Kenya is on the rise, with more people seeking treatment and support, especially among Generation Z and Millennials. 

However, the same cannot be said for Generation X and the elderly, who remain largely reluctant to seek mental health assistance. 

However, this does not mean they are not struggling. 

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), one in four Kenyans seeking primary healthcare is battling a mental health condition. 

During the launch of Kenya’s first Mental Health Clinical Guidelines in October 2024, Director General of Health Dr. Patrick Amoth emphasized the need for mental health literacy among primary caregivers and in schools to promote early diagnosis and proper treatment.

To understand how mental health challenges affect the elderly, Wananchi Reporting travelled to Migori County, where she met Odiwuor Okeyo, a man who has found a unique way to provide mental health support to his aging parents and family, without them even realizing it.

A Family’s Painful Past

For Odiwuor Okeyo, mental health struggles in his family are deeply rooted in a history of loss. 

His family has endured unimaginable grief, from his grandfather’s lineage, no son or grandson has ever celebrated their 40th birthday.

"Despite my grandfather having many sons and grandsons, none of them have reached the age of 40. They have died one after another. To make it worse, my grandfather and grandmother lived long enough to witness their children and grandchildren pass away, leaving behind grieving widows and orphans. You can only imagine the pain they went through," Odiwuor shared.

Growing up, he recalls the emotional toll this had on his family. His cousins never bonded with their fathers, and there were no uncles in their home, just children raised by their mourning mothers and aging grandparents.

"We all lived with our grandparents because our fathers had died. Our mothers were mourning, and our grandfather tried to keep us strong and focused on our studies. But deep down, the pain was there," he said.

As the years went by, Odiwuor and his cousins grew into young men, bringing a sense of renewed hope to their grieving family. But even with this, he could still feel the unhealed wounds, the sorrow in his grandmother, mother, and aunts. The pressure to marry young was also evident, as his grandmother sought continuity in the family.

That’s when he started researching ways to ease their emotional pain and improve their mental well-being.

A Unique Solution: Animal Therapy

In 2017, Odiwuor discovered animal therapy, a method proven to boost mental well-being, reduce stress, and improve moods. He started small, with just ten goats, but today, his home is filled with goats and sheep, providing not only emotional relief but also a sense of purpose to his aging family members.

"We may never erase the painful memories, but these animals bring joy to my family. They keep them active, especially my mother, who now spends time taking care of them instead of sitting alone with heavy thoughts. In the evening, when the animals return from grazing, people make way for them because they are so many! That sight alone brings joy and laughter that I never imagined," he shared with a smile.

What started as a mental health intervention has now turned into a thriving business. However, for Odiwuor, the emotional impact far outweighs the economic benefits.

"Many people assume this was a business project, but the emotional value it has brought into my life and my family’s life is greater than any financial gain," he emphasized.

Embracing Alternative Mental Health Solutions

For those struggling with grief and loss, Odiwuor strongly advocates for animal therapy. "Anyone suffering from the loss of a loved one should consider animal therapy. Get a pet, a goat, or any animal that requires care. It truly works, it has worked for me and my family," he advised.

As mental health awareness continues to grow in Kenya, stories like Odiwuor Okeyo’s highlight the importance of alternative healing methods, particularly for those who may not feel comfortable seeking conventional therapy. Whether through professional treatment or unique personal interventions like animal therapy, mental health support is essential for people of all ages.