Care Homes UK | Dementia, Residential & Nursing Care | Runwood Homes

Two furry friends pay an unexpected surprise to residents at Windmill House care home

The residents, relatives and team at Windmill House received an unexpected visit from a pint-sized Shetland Pony, Hamish and his furry friend, Chestnut the Guinea Pig.

The day was organised by Lix White, a relative of a 102-year-old resident at Windmill House. Lix grew up working on the lands with a love for horses and wanted to bring joy to the residents’ faces at the care home.

When visiting our homes, therapy pets help people living with dementia by improving motor skills, making them feel happier and lifted, encouraging interaction and triggering reminiscing conversations. Benefits also include higher comfort levels and a sense of caring and companionship.

Fran Annis, Wellbeing Lead at Windmill House, said: “The residents absolutely loved it, and it was quite emotional for the team to see the residents with Hamish and Chestnut. For some of our residents, it is difficult to go on many outings into the community; it was a privilege to have them visit the home and look forward to welcoming them again in the future.”

Runwood Homes builds relationships with local communities, groups and even animals in order to provide varied activities and experiences for their residents, helping to maintain a stimulated and engaging living environment.

For more information on Windmill House care home, please visit: https://www.runwoodhomes.co.uk/care-homes/care-homes-norfolk/windmill-house