Animals for Autism Inc. is a nonprofit organization dedicated to enriching lives through the healing power of animals. We provide free, hands-on experiences with exotic animals for individuals with physical and emotional disabilities, veterans, and first responders. Our events take place both on-site at our Milton, Florida facility and through our travel encounter services.
Our mission is simple but powerful: to improve emotional well-being through meaningful animal interaction. We believe that compassion, connection, and community can all be nurtured in the presence of animals.
Provide free animal interactions for people with disabilities, veterans, and first responders
Offer donation-based access to the general public
Foster emotional wellness and education through contact with exotic animals
Build a stronger, healthier, and more compassionate community
Why We Do It
Scientific research continues to show that time spent with animals can dramatically improve emotional health, reduce anxiety, and encourage meaningful social interaction. But for us, it goes far beyond the science.
We’ve witnessed firsthand the power of animal connection—a non-verbal child lighting up with joy during a lemur encounter, a veteran silently holding a wallaby and finding peace after years of internal struggle, or a person with PTSD feeling grounded in the presence of a calm, curious fox. These are not just feel-good moments; they are deeply therapeutic experiences that can shape lives.
Our work is rooted in the belief that everyone—especially those who often face invisible battles—deserves access to healing experiences. By offering free animal interactions to people with disabilities, veterans, and first responders, we aim to create a space where joy, calm, and connection come naturally.
Animals don’t judge. They don’t need explanations. And sometimes, all it takes is a gentle paw or a curious gaze to spark something transformative.
That’s why we do what we do.
Meet Our Team
Todd Simons
President
Air Force veteran, lifelong animal keeper, and founder of Animals for Autism. Inspired by a powerful interaction with a non-verbal friend, Todd leads the vision behind the organization.
Ashley Vega
Operations Manager
Local to the Northwest Florida Panhandle, Ashley is a lifelong animal lover and recent UWF graduate. She runs day-to-day operations and supports our outreach with passion and heart.
Dave Merriman
Director
Disabled Air Force veteran and animal fosterer since childhood. Dave brings experience, empathy, and a deep connection to the animals he helps care for.
Have questions or want to schedule a visit? Get in touch with us!
