The Lawns care home hosts animal therapy session for its residents

Residents at The Lawns Bupa Care Home have recently enjoyed an animal therapy session with an array of interesting creatures – including a python, hedgehogs, barn owls and stick insects.

The afternoon session was organised by Chloe Holley, Activity Co-ordinator at The Lawns alongside Exotic Explorers, an award-winning animal education provider based in Essex who uphold animal welfare and education at the heart of their experiences.

One resident, Royston Mays, 61 years old, commented: “I had a lovely time with the animals, I think we were quite excited to see them all. I especially liked the hedgehog; it was beautiful and not as spiky in texture as other hedgehogs I’ve encountered before.”

Another resident, John Raxworthy, aged 92, commented: “It was a very interesting afternoon, I have never been that close to a snake before. It wasn’t as frightening as I first imagined! I found the enthusiasm of the presenters particularly engaging.”

Christine Jennings, Home Manager at The Lawns, commented: “It was a wonderful afternoon with Exotic Explorers and the residents had a lovely time. Residents and staff alike were soon keen to hold the array of different animals and it was a delight to see everyone’s faces light up when they were interacting with them all.”

Christine concluded: “Animal therapy sessions are well known to have a host of mood-boosting benefits, and this is something that is particularly important to us at The Lawns. We are really looking forward to welcoming Exotic Explorers back to the home for the residents to spend more time with the animals again soon.”

After proving a hit with residents and staff alike, The Lawns Bupa Care Home team look forward to welcoming Exotic Explorers back for future events for residents to enjoy.