Friendly alpacas bring joy to Lord Harris Court residents

Residents at Lord Harris Court, in Berkshire, have recently enjoyed a friendly visit from Truffle and George, two alpacas that soon became very popular in the care home. The residents were delighted to meet the affectionate animals, who were happy to be petted and stroked. Antonia Brown, the Home’s Trainer, led the alpacas around and introduced them to the residents.

Taking part in this activity, 91 year old resident Edna Staines said:

They are so nice and well behaved. One of them ate out of my hand!

Deane Robinson, Activities Coordinator at Lord Harris Court, said:

The alpacas brought bliss to our residents, which is fantastic for their mental health and wellbeing. One of our residents was so delighted that she cried with joy! Everyone who met the animals, both residents and staff, fell in love with them.

Residents John (95) and Sybil Bird (93), assisted by Lord Harris Court’s Trainer, Antonia Brown, greet and stroke the alpaca affectionately.

The Activities Coordinator reflected on the importance of this activity for residents. She said:

The residents were able to get very close and feel the alpacas’ breath and touch their shaggy hair. This was a particularly joyful experience for residents with visual problems.

The Home welcomes animals for therapeutic purposes, as they not only bring joy and a sense of calm to the residents, but also benefit their mental health and wellbeing by boosting their activity levels, reducing stress and combating loneliness. This activity was arranged in collaboration with Mortimer Alpacas, a local business in Berkshire that owns alpacas for people to enjoy outdoors.

[Summary: Residents and staff at Lord Harris Court, in Berkshire, welcome two friendly alpacas at the care home. The residents had the opportunity to pet and stroke the animals. This activity supports their health and mental wellbeing.]