Fareham care home residents have a field day with farm animals

Residents at a care home in Fareham were all ears when a host of four-legged visitors hopped and trotted into the home. 

A sheep, pig, turkey, guinea pigs, rabbits, and goats from Mill Cottage Farm were added to the guest list at Care UK’s Parker Meadows, on Redlands Lane, much to the surprise of the residents. 

Keen to get to know their latest guests, residents were given a chance to cuddle the animals, all while learning more about their different personalities, favourite foods and how to look after them.

88-year-old resident Wendy Park was able to enjoy the visit with her great-grandchild, Isabella, who shares her love for the guinea pigs. 

Wendy said: “It was lovely to have a cuddle with the animals and seeing them all, I especially liked the guinea pig as he just sat there. Isabella really enjoyed the cuddles too. It was a lovely afternoon.”

Joe Gould, Customer Relations Manager at Parker Meadows, said: “We loved welcoming such wonderful animals to Parker Meadows; it was a very memorable afternoon for everyone. 

“Being around animals has been shown to have many therapeutic advantages for older people, particularly those living with dementia, as it helps lower anxiety and creates relaxing endorphins. You could see from the residents' reactions just how much they enjoyed interacting with the animals. It proved to be a fantastic opportunity to reminisce too, with so many residents having their own pets over the years – it was wonderful to hear their stories.

“We look forward to welcoming more animals of all shapes and sizes back to Parker Meadows in the future!”

Parker Meadows provides full-time residential care, nursing care and dementia care, as well as short-term respite care. The home incorporates plenty of space for hobby and leisure activities in addition to independent living bungalows on site. The layout of the building is configured into a series of individual suites, each having a dedicated lounge and dining room to facilitate the creation of close-knit communities.