It’s guinea be a good day – care home in Weymouth has welcomed fluffy team members

A care home in Weymouth has officially welcomed two new team members – and they are set to be a hit with residents and colleagues alike.  

The adorable Guinea pigs Smokey and Chutney have joined the team at Care UK’s Anning House, on Cross Road, and their duties include being on hand for residents to fuss, feed or simply spend time with.

Having two Guinea pig pets in the care home not only encourages residents to get outdoors, where both live, but also allows residents to take care of Smokey and Chutney which helps them continue to have a sense of purpose in later in life.

The new team members are helping to bring back happy memories of pets in younger years for many residents. 

Anning House also has a number of chickens who live in the gardens of the home. Residents help take care of the animals by collecting eggs and feeding them. 

Norah, resident at Anning House said: ‘I love all animals, so it was really exciting when the Guinea pigs arrived. I love it when they sit on my lap and just let me smooth them down’.

Michelle Harwood, General Manager at Anning House, said: “We have seen other Care UK homes welcome pets into their homes and we knew Guinea pigs would be perfect addition to Anning House. Smokey and Chutney can often be found being fussed over by residents – the home already simply wouldn’t be the same without them.

“Studies have shown that introducing animals into care homes can help lift people’s mood and increase social interaction. The human-animal bond is powerful in promoting self-esteem and wellbeing, and Smokey and Chutney are brilliant at doing this.”

Designed to enable residents to live active and fulfilled lives, while also promoting independence, Anning House incorporates space for hobby and leisure activities. The home provides full-time residential care, nursing care, dementia care and respite care. The layout of the building is configured into a series of individual suites, each having a dedicated lounge/dining room to help facilitate the creation of close-knit communities.

To find out more about Anning House, please call Home Admissions Advisor, Paul Bartliff on 01305 896744, email paul.bartliff@careuk.com or visit careuk.com/anning-house.