Croft House residents overjoyed with animal therapy visit

Residents at Croft House Bupa Care Home have recently enjoyed an animal therapy session with a variety of animals, including guinea pigs, frogs, snakes and a bearded dragon.

The session was organised by Angeline Wilson, Activity Co-ordinator at the care home, alongside Wild Science, a provider of animal therapy whose animals are ethically sourced and cared for as pets once retired.

The visit allowed residents to interact with the animals in the lounge, which was thoroughly enjoyed by all who attended. Some residents were even able to have a room visit thanks to the incredible staff and animal experts who were able to accommodate everyone.

Wild Science is known for being the leading provider of animal handling sessions due to their tailored sessions. Their qualified experts focus on engaging their clients to provide the best animal education and animal therapy.

One resident, Richard, aged 91 commented: “I enjoyed the animal visit a lot. I was a little bit nervous when I first saw the snake as I have never held one before, but I really enjoyed holding him. He even curled around my neck; it was quite the experience!”

Another resident, Joan, aged 95 commented: “I was very excited when they told me they were bringing the animals to my room. Jerry, the expert, came in and showed me the animals. I loved them all, they had even had a guinea pig. My favourite was the bearded dragon. I stroked her on my lap, it made me so happy.”

Mel Kemsley, Home Manager at Croft House Bupa Care Home, commented: “It was truly a pleasure to welcome Wild Science back to Croft House for an animal therapy session. The residents had such a wonderful time, and particularly enjoyed learning about all the animals they were holding. Animal therapy is well known to be beneficial for residents’ wellbeing due to the calm atmosphere they create, and we are already looking forward to the next visit.”

Residents and staff at Croft House look forward to welcoming Wild Science back in the coming weeks and months for more animal therapy sessions.

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