Pawsitively adorable – Hythe care home resident receives surprise visit

A resident at a care home in Hythe was delighted when her wish to rekindle her love for assistance dogs was granted. 

When the team at Care UK’s Carpathia Grange, on Southampton Road, learned that 93-year-old Edna French-Lewis used to raise guide dogs in her youth, they were determined to organise a surprise visit from a four-legged friend.

The home welcomed Anne and her black labrador, Rosie, who was raised as a guide dog. Rosie had completed three months of training, however her fondness for squirrels and water caused a career change from guiding to being an ambassador. 

Edna spent the afternoon swapping stories with Anne and showering Rosie with belly rubs and treats. 

She said: “The visit from Rosie and Anne really lifted my spirits. I loved being able to reminisce about raising guide dogs and laughing about the quirks of labradors!”

In her 30s and 40s, Edna became a carer for guide dog puppies and welcomed two golden labrador puppies, Prim and Arkle, to the family. Edna taught them to be house trained, calm around traffic and happy in public places, leading them to become reliable guide dogs. 

Edna said: “I loved being able to help raise Prim and Arkle. Although our family was devastated each time they left, we always kept a photo of them with their new families to remind ourselves of the important difference they make to their owners' lives.”

The special visit was part of Care UK’s Wishing Tree initiative, which encourages residents to put their dreams forward, allowing them to reconnect with a past hobby or try something completely new. From flying a plane to enjoying a fish and chip supper, no wish is too big or small for the team to try to grant.

Jodie Lavers, Home Manager at Carpathia Grange, said: “Edna loves to talk about the years she spent caring for her guide dogs, so when she shared that she was mutts about pooches, the team knew they had to make it happen. 

“Here at Carpathia Grange, we know just how beneficial animal therapy can be for older people, especially for those living with dementia, as being close to animals can help lift a person’s mood and encourage social interaction. Edna, along with many other residents, had dogs in her younger years, so it was a wonderful opportunity to encourage reminiscence of much-loved family pets.

“I’d like to extend a big thank you to the team here and to Anne and Rosie for a fantastic day making Edna’s wish come true!”

Carpathia Grange is a three-storey care home that provides residential, dementia and nursing care, as well as short-term respite care. It features 62 en-suite bedrooms and has been designed to enable its residents to lead active and fulfilling lives, while also promoting independence. The building incorporates space for leisure activities and hobbies, and includes its own cinema, hair and beauty salon and pub.