Edinburgh care home welcomes new friends

Residents at a care home in Edinburgh have experienced an afternoon of hands-on fun as a host of weird and wonderful animals popped in to visit. 

The team at Care UK’s Cairdean House on Redford Road in Colinton, invited a variety of creatures to visit the home to meet residents for an interactive afternoon of animal therapy. 

Residents were able to observe, hold and stroke a gerbil, snake and a snail brought in by ZooLab, the UK’s leading ethical animal encounter provider.

They learned interesting facts about each of the animals, including their habitats and favourite foods, while residents who dared were able to experience handling some of them.

Resident Dorothy Low, 87, said: “It was a truly special visit from ZooLabs. The chance to hold many exotic and different types of animals brought back a lot of lovely, joyful memories over the years of visiting zoos as a child. A little scary, but truly wonderful.”

Angela Burns, Home Manager at Cairdean House, added: “We are always looking to plan interesting and exciting activities for residents. So many have an interest in wildlife and nature, so we knew we had to invite ZooLab for an afternoon of animal therapy.

“Whether big or small, spending time with animals can be incredibly beneficial for older people, as being around them can instantly help to lift a person's mood and encourage social interaction, especially for those living with dementia. Animal therapy sessions are always met with such a positive reaction from the residents – they were fascinated by the reptiles, especially the tortoise! 

“Every visit brings its share of surprises, and we never know which animal will come through the door. We’re all looking forward to welcoming the ZooLab team again very soon.”

Cairdean House has been designed to deliver the very best standards of care and incorporates plenty of space for hobby and leisure activities. The home provides full-time residential, nursing and specialist dementia care, as well as short-term respite care.