I think animals can help somebody to improve his sensitive abilities, wether they were limited. I didn't know this story before now but I think it could be quiet real. In fact I've heard several stories about people, mostly children, and animals which helped them to develop their emotions, for instance with autistics.
This story could be exaggerated in the datails, like the words the child said, but real at the end. I've heard stories between children and horses, a lot of pediatricians recommend parents to have a pet at home if they have children, due their positive effects .
I think the best you can do to raise money for a good reason is to explain everybody your intention , what you need, and to ask for it, I'm sure people is going to help you.