West Bridgford, Nottinghamshire – Humboldt penguins Pringle and Widget recently waddled into The Grand Care Home, where they captivated residents during a special animal therapy session.
Unlikely Visitors Steal the Show
Residents lit up with excitement as the medium-sized birds from Heythrop Zoological Gardens in Oxfordshire made their entrance. For many, it marked their first encounter with live penguins up close. The visit allowed everyone present to gently stroke and hold the calm animals under careful supervision.
Les Clarkstone, 89, held one of the penguins and described the moment fondly. “It was very comfortable and never murmured, so it was quite nice,” he said. “I enjoyed it.” Such interactions provided a refreshing break from routine, fostering smiles and light-hearted chatter throughout the home.
Trained Therapy Stars from the Zoo
Heythrop Zoological Gardens, a private facility focused on animal welfare education, regularly sends its penguins to care homes and hospices nationwide. Pringle and Widget, born and raised at the zoo, underwent lifelong training for these therapeutic roles.
Luke Fillary, the 21-year-old head bird keeper, accompanied the duo and guided safe handling. “They both have been born at our zoo, so they have been in training their whole life,” Fillary explained. “Officially, they have been doing it for the past six years. Both are very well behaved.” His instructions ensured comfort for both birds and participants.
Family Moments and Resident Reactions
The event extended invitations to families, turning it into a shared experience. Jackie Kirkham traveled from Clifton to see her 91-year-old father, Derek, interact with the penguins. “It’s just something new for them, something that they probably won’t be doing,” she noted. “He enjoys it and we do – it’s comforting.”
These personal connections amplified the joy, with relatives capturing the delight on their loved ones’ faces. Residents shared stories and laughter, strengthening bonds in the moment.
Animal Therapy’s Proven Impact
The Grand Care Home routinely welcomes various animals to support resident wellbeing. Bridget Peck, the wellbeing coordinator, highlighted the value of these visits. “I think animals play an important role for everybody’s wellbeing,” she said. “Not just dogs – we have donkeys, ponies, every Easter we have the ducks and chickens come in. So penguins, why not? It was great.”
Such programs offer emotional uplift, reduce stress, and encourage social engagement among the elderly.
- Donkeys and ponies for gentle petting sessions
- Ducks and chickens during Easter events
- Dogs as frequent therapy companions
- Penguins for a unique, memorable twist
Key Takeaways
- Animal-assisted therapy boosts mood and interaction in care settings.
- Trained exotic animals like penguins provide novel stimulation.
- Family involvement enhances emotional benefits for all.
Events like this penguin visit underscore the power of unconventional therapy to create enduring happiness. What animal would you most like to see in a care home? Share your thoughts in the comments.
