Miniature pony delights Queen Elizabeth Court residents

Above: (Left) Queen Elizabeth Court resident Gerald meets Sparkles, the miniature therapy pony in Llandudno. (Right) 100 year old resident Sheila enjoys stroking Sparkles, the miniature therapy pony.

According to a global study, the positive impact of animals is that 87% of pet owners report experiencing mental or physical health benefits from their pets. Recent studies indicate by petting or touching an animal can help to alleviate anxiety and depression, and provides emotional stability.

Staff at Queen Elizabeth Court, in Llandudno, organised a friendly visit from Sparkles, a miniature black and white Shetland pony, much to the residents’ delight.

Sparkles, the miniature Shetland pony, nuzzles up with resident Mary.

Laura Owen, owner of Sparkles Pony Parties based in North Wales, led Sparkles all around the Home so residents could interact with her. They even made a personal stop at some of the residents’ rooms so that they could be introduced.

Resident Sheila, who recently celebrated her 100th birthday, said:

I couldn’t believe it when I came into the lounge and there was a pony! I was so grateful to be able to spend time with such a beautiful animal.

One of the Home’s Activities Coordinators, Rachael commented:

It was incredible to see our residents’ faces light up when they realised they had a special visitor! Sparkles was so friendly and calm, allowing everyone to pet and stroke her.

[Summary: A miniature black and white Shetland pony called Sparkles brought joy and delight to residents at Queen Elizabeth Court, in Llandudno.]