Whitstable care home residents join ‘cuddle club’

A care home in Whitstable surprised residents with a special visit from some four-legged friends.

Residents at Care UK’s Harrier Lodge, on Thanet Way, welcomed, Gracie, who was a rescue from Battersea Dogs Home, where residents enjoyed an afternoon of love and cuddles.

The dogs were brought in by Red Lion Canines, a voluntary service that provides dog therapy for people of all ages across Kent.

Beryl, 92 years young, said, “I always love to see the dogs when they visit. I used to have a golden retriever so it’s lovely to be in the company of four-legged friends again.”

Susan Simmonds, Home Manager at Harrier Lodge, said: “We had a wonderful time with the dogs. All the residents had such big smiles on their faces. There is always a lot of buzz and excitement around the home when animals come to visit from both the residents and team members.

“Being in the company of animals has been proven to have therapeutic benefits for older people, particularly those living with dementia, as it can reduce anxiety, encourage social interaction and boost someone's mood.

“A big thank you to Red Lion Canines for bringing Gracie, Marny, Bella and Dylan. We absolutely loved spending time with them.”

Harrier Lodge is a purpose-built care home which has been designed to enable residents to live active and fulfilled lives, while also promoting independence. The home provides full-time residential, nursing and specialist dementia care for up to 65 older people in Whitstable, and incorporates plenty of space for leisure activities and hobbies, including its own cinema, hairdressing salon and café.