It’s raining cats and dogs!
Animal encounters are proven to boost mood and have a positive effect on wellbeing. Some special animals, such as therapy dogs, are specifically trained to do this.
The companionship of a pet, the active lifestyle that many animals encourage and the community of pet owners created are the reason we try to encourage people moving in to many of our houses and homes to bring their beloved pets with them.
The creatures of comfort also apply to our staff, many of whom have pets at home or bring them to work.
We asked people to send us pictures of their pets, and other animals they have encountered, and tell us what makes them so special.
Boo – a resident’s pet at Hampton House, Solihull
Resident Richard Bunce said, “Boo is so well behaved and so cute. I love his little walk and the way he comes through the room. You call his name, and he comes to you for a fuss. He instantly makes me smile when I see him, and I look forward to seeing him each day.
“A new resident named Phillip who recently moved in was sat in the lounge and Boo came through, realised he was a new person he hadn’t seen before and went over to introduce himself and get a fuss. He wouldn’t go to anyone else until he had gotten a fuss from Phillip.
“Everyone at Hampton house loves Boo and no matter what is going on people stop to stroke him, talk to him and give him a huge fuss. He is the most popular resident at Hampton House, always putting a smile on everyone’s face, bringing happiness wherever he goes and a sense of calm.”
Marley – therapy dog who visits Pratt House, Amersham
Activity Coordinator, Kirsty Budgen, said, “We were outside soaking up the sun today. We enjoyed our ice lollies – and Marley did as well.
“We welcomed Peter, who moved in today and fitted in so well. He has clearly already made friends for life, not just with other residents but Marley too!”
Rabbits and dogs from Abbeyfield Winnersh, Wokingham
As well as Snoop, a dog is owned by Activities Coordinator, Rowena Lamont, Abbeyfield Winnersh have recently welcome some long-eared rabbits into the house.
The residents love cuddling up to them and giving them a stroke. A Facebook poll was created for the local community to name the rabbits – the black one is Poppy, and the grey one is Peter.
Alpacas visited Abbeyfield House, Lincoln
Manager, Patricia Hopcroft, said, “Our residents received a lovely visit from some adorable alpacas.
“They all thoroughly enjoyed the interaction and got to feed them. Look at the smiles on their faces. Our Housekeeper also tried to take one home!”
Owls visited Abbeyfield House, New Malden
Activity Coordinator, Jay Ward, said, “Having animals here has such a big impact on our residents. Not only are they calming and lovely to watch and hold, but many of our residents remember their past experiences and past pets during.
“We recently had a couple of owls and a hawk come to the home. Even some residents who do not usually take part in activities were so impressed that they took part.
“Seeing the smiles and the genuine joy you get to see in residents’ eyes during such events make the planning worth every second. Misty, our therapy dog, comes in every week and I try to get more animals in as often as I can.
“Later this month we have eggs coming to the home, so our residents can watch as the baby chickens hatch and start their first couple of weeks of life. I am positive it is going to have a big impact on their mental wellbeing, and I am very much looking to it myself as well.”
Staff pets
We also had some staff send in photos of their cute pets from home, including Anna Palubska, and Evening Administrator at Girton Green, who send a photo of her cat.
Fundraising Officer, Helen Porter, send in her photo of rabbit, Tiger, who doesn’t live up to her name and instead prefers a gentle cuddle!
Graphic Designer, Laura Sabri, sent in her cats, 18-moth-old Fudge (who is playful) and 14-year-old Huriyah (who prefer to sleep); and Database and Compliance Officer, Ian Nancollas, sent photos of his beloved pets, dog Florence, who is 15 years old, and cat Bella, who is 17.
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