Tiny Hooves, Big Hearts: Ponies Bring Joy to Plymouth Care Home
Residents got a lovely surprise when a pair of Shetland ponies popped into their lounge at Butterfly Lodge in Plymouth to ‘neigh’ hello.
The pint-sized miniatures, Peanut and Wizzle, from Dartmoor Carriages, charmed everyone with their gentle nature, happily accepting strokes and cuddles.
For those who couldn’t join the group, the duo made sure no one missed out, happily visiting residents in their rooms so everyone could be involved in the experience.
The visit was organised by the activities team at the specialist care home in St Budeaux, which is run by award-winning dementia care provider Camelot Care.
Butterfly Lodge’s deputy manager Sarah McCaffrey said: “They were so gentle and patient that our residents took to them straight away.
“There were smiles all round the minute the ponies walked in, and lots of remarks about how soft their coats felt and how friendly they were.
“For many of our residents, animals bring up all kinds of wonderful memories and create moments of pure happiness that really brighten their day.
“We’re so grateful to Dartmoor Carriages for bringing them along and we can’t wait to welcome them back.”
The activities are part of a packed and varied programme of events organised for the enjoyment of residents, specially designed to keep them engaged and active.
Butterfly Lodge is one of four dementia care homes in Devon and Somerset run by Camelot Care, with a fifth due to open in Holsworthy later this year.
