Residents at St Catherine’s Care Home in Horwich were treated to a special celebration of National Pet Day, as a diverse array of animals made their way through the doors to bring joy and companionship to the elderly residents.
Joined by children from Moorlands Day Nursery, the residents of St Catherine’s were delighted to spend the morning with some unusual visitors. Poppywood Alpacas made a memorable entrance, bringing Dobby, Marmalade, and Piglet to the care home, where they were greeted with warmth and affection. Residents had the opportunity to stroke and cuddle these gentle creatures, creating precious moments of connection and happiness.
Adding to the menagerie, Belle, the granddaughter of Home Manager Gillian Johnson, introduced her two tortoises, Elvis and Priscilla, to the residents. Belle shared insights into caring for these unique pets, sparking nostalgic memories among many residents who recalled their own experiences with tortoises in their youth. Learning about the sensitive nature of tortoise shells, residents eagerly participated in the tactile experience, relishing the chance to interact with the intriguing reptiles.
Reflecting on the unexpected visit, resident Derek Latham remarked, “Well, that was different. I couldn’t believe it when the alpacas arrived, they’re the last thing I would have expected to walk through the door!” Irene Payne echoed the sentiment, expressing her delight in meeting and stroking all the animals, labeling the day as “wonderful.”
Cara Daley, the Magic Moments Coordinator at St Catherine’s, highlighted the importance of animal interactions for the well-being of the residents. “Spending time with animals has many benefits, particularly for older people, and contributes hugely to their emotional well-being,” she explained. The positive impact of the visit resonated throughout the care home, with residents eagerly anticipating future encounters with their newfound furry and scaled friends.
Located in Queen Street, Horwich, Bolton, St Catherine’s Care Home offers a range of services including residential, nursing, palliative, and dementia care. The home maintains a ‘Good’ rating from the Care Quality Commission (CQC) and continues to prioritize activities that enrich the lives of its residents.
