Local care home residents have a hoot at animal therapy session

Residents at Wilmington Manor Bupa Care Home had a hoot of a time during a recent animal therapy session, with owls visiting the home for a special visit to boost their wellbeing.

Organised by Activity Co-ordinator Samantha Bass and her team, Jambs Owls (based in Hall Place in Bexley) visited the residents at Wilmington Manor to bring them a sense of calm.

The handler, Matthew, introduced and spoke about each of the seven owls, before taking them round for each resident to hold or stroke. Residents who were unable to come and see the owls received a VIP visit in their bedrooms.

Connie Mayhook, aged 91, resident at Wilmington Manor, commented: “I absolutely loved the animal therapy session. The handlers were so knowledgeable about the different types, it was very informative. I was happy to be able to hold them and even more impressed that they took an owl round to see residents that were unable to attend.”

Another resident, Winnie Draper, aged 91, commented: “I had a marvellous time and I loved it all. Anything to do with animals and birds makes me so happy. They were so gentle and I loved holding them, I hope they will visit us again soon.”

Esther Ezeonyeka, Home Manager at Wilmington Manor, commented: “We absolutely loved our visit from Jambs Owls, the residents were in awe of the beautiful owls - they brought a real sense of calm to the care home. Holding animal therapy sessions is incredibly beneficial for our residents’ wellbeing, it really does lift their spirits.”

The team at Wilmington Manor look forward to hosting more animal therapy sessions for their residents over the coming months.