Breaking mews: Kingsleigh officially opens pet corner

Home news

Apr 12, 2019

Kingsleigh has opened a pet corner, complete with cat and guinea pigs, which is having a really paws-itive impact on residents. 

Kingsleigh created the corner after residents asked to have pets within in the home. The first of the animals to move in were Theodore and Alvin, two guinea pigs.

Seeing how much the residents bonded with Alvin and Theodore, it was decided that the home would adopt a cat, and so Finley was brought into the home from the local Cat’s Protection Charity. Together the animals have been given their own dedicated pet corner for residents and their family and friends to visit. 

The corner was designed by Karen Utting and depicts a beautiful park teaming with wildlife. Karen works for local art initiative Creative Minds, and regularly visits the home to teach art classes and help with projects. Art has been a proven benefit to those living with dementia, as it helps them express their emotions through a creative outlet.

Home manager at Kingsleigh, Kelly Kelleher, said: “Since Finley, Theodore and Alvin moved in, the residents have been overjoyed, and our team members certainly love having them around too. 

“Petting animals and being in their company has proven therapeutic benefits, particularly for those living with dementia, as it can reduce anxiety, release calming endorphins, and decrease feelings of loneliness. You can see from the residents’ reactions just how engaged they are when given the opportunity to get so close to such lovely, affectionate animals.”