Local care home residents enjoy animal therapy session

Residents at The Links Bupa Care Home have recently enjoyed an animal therapy session with an array of interesting creatures - including a tortoise, gecko, snake, gerbil and scorpion.

Inspired by a string of successful animal therapy days which have previously taken place at the care home, the session was organised by Sue Alderman, Activity Co-ordinator at the Links, with ZooLab, an organisation that provides ethical animal encounters.

Terry Williams, aged 75 and resident at The Links, commented: “I had a wonderful afternoon. Anna was very knowledgeable about all the animals she brought with her. I now feel rather informed about snakes - something I never thought I’d say!”

Joyce Thompson, aged 82 and resident at The Links, added: “I really loved the fact that the animals had names, especially the tortoise, it made him even more cute.”

Another resident, Margaret Jennings, aged 78, commented: “I love when ZooLab came to visit - the gerbil was so tiny and very friendly. I am looking forward to seeing what animals Anna brings next time.”

Sue Alderman, Activity Co-ordinator at The Links, commented: “We had a thoroughly enjoyable afternoon with our visit from ZooLab. Animal therapy sessions are always met with such a positive reaction by our residents - they were amazed by the animals, especially the tortoise! We’re always striving to try new things and welcome visitors to boost our residents’ mood and wellbeing.”

After proving a hit with residents and staff alike, The Links Bupa Care Home team look forward to welcoming ZooLab and their animal friends back for future events for residents to enjoy.

The Links Bupa Care Home is situated in Broadstone and welcomes residents in need of nursing or residential care, including those living with Huntington’s Dementia and Parkinson’s. For further information, please visit https://www.bupa.co.uk/care-services