Caring Companions

Now Open!

Caring Companions is a temporary exhibition which will explore the life-changing and life-saving impact animals can have on our lives. 

Throughout history, animals have given people comfort, support, and assistance; some as pets, while others are matched with people to assist in a specific way or to provide support. Caring Companions showcases assistance animals, personal stories and case studies, therapy animals, and the science behind it. It is informative and interactive, and perfect for people of all ages!

Widely regarded as the founder of modern nursing, Florence Nightingale was one of the first advocates for animal therapy. During her lifetime she rescued many animals, most famously a Little Owl named Athena who would follow the nurse everywhere she went. While working at Scutari Hospital during the Crimean War, Nightingale introduced Jimmy the tortoise as a ‘ward pet’ for the wounded soldiers. She later wrote in her book Notes on Nursing (1860) that “a small pet animal is often an excellent companion”.

This exhibition is included in all general admission tickets. Tickets can be purchased online or in person.

Buy your museum tickets here:

You can listen to the exhibition text here: