The ‘mane’ event – Cambridge care home welcomes four-legged friends

Residents at a care home in Cambridge were visited by a herd of unusual visitors for an afternoon of animal therapy fun.

Residents at Care UK’s Heathlands House, on Bullen Close, welcomed 2 friendly horses, Honeybee and Thimble from London and Cambridge Pony Parties.

Residents were able to interact with their new four-legged friends, as well as learning about some of their characteristics and how to care for the gentle creatures.

Commenting on the experience, Sybil Exell, aged 91, a resident at Heathlands House said: “I loved meeting Honeybee and Thimble! Having grown up on a farm in Dorset, seeing the ponies brought back fond memories of childhood trips to Dartmoor and seeing all the ponies there.”

Razvan Stanbeca, Home Manager at Heathlands House, added: “We’re always on the lookout for new and exciting activities to put a smile on residents’ faces here at Heathlands House.

“Many residents have owned pets themselves, so having animals come into the home is a great way to prompt residents to reminisce and share treasured memories – animal therapy is incredibly beneficial for older people, as it promotes relaxation and conversation.

“On behalf of the team and residents, I’d like to extend our thanks to London and Cambridge Pony Parties for allowing us to spend the afternoon with Honeybee and Thimble – everyone had a wonderful time and we’re already looking forward to our next animal encounter!”

Designed to enable residents to live active and fulfilled lives, while also promoting independence, Heathlands House incorporates space for hobby and leisure activities both indoors and out. The layout of the building has been configured into a series of individual suites, each having a dedicated lounge and dining room to help facilitate the creation of close-knit communities.

To find out more about Heathlands House, please contact Customer Relations Manager, Tanya Jackson-Turner, on tanya.jackson-turner@careuk.com or call 01223 631945. 

For more information, visit careuk.com/heathlands-house