At Cramlington House, residents recently enjoyed a fun-filled visit from a wide range of animals. From a gentle dove to a slithery snake, a curious rat, and a magnificent owl, the star of the show was definitely Zante the fox.
Animal therapy provides great benefits to our residents, helping to reduce anxiety and making residents feel relaxed and comfortable. The simple act of petting an animal can trigger the release of oxytocin, the ‘feel good’ hormone, leading to an instant boost in mood and a sense of emotional wellbeing.
Kim Stubbs, our activities coordinator at Cramlington House, said: “Residents were so happy during the animal visit. Many expressed excitement and wonder as they interacted with the animals. Zante the fox captured hearts with his playful and affectionate manner. The experience brought back cherished memories of wildlife and instilled a sense of childlike curiosity among the residents. It was wonderful to watch.”
The animal visit also sparked conversations and social interactions among the residents. Sharing stories and experiences created a sense of community and unity. The presence of animals can indeed work wonders in nurturing the human spirit and improving overall wellbeing.