Framlingham care home residents shell-shocked by unusual visitors

A care home in Framlingham has welcomed some unusual visitors.

Residents at Care UK’s Mills Meadow, on Fore Street, were surprised when a herd of quirky animals slithered, scurried and slowly plodded into the home.

Among the creatures was a royal python snake, named Cleo, a bearded dragon, a tortoise, a giant millipede, and a guinea pig from Our Animal World Educational and Therapeutic Mobile Zoo.  

The residents were able to interact with and learn about their new furry – and scaly – friends, prompting them to reminisce about trips to the zoo in their younger years and pets they’ve had throughout their lives.

Eileen Dennis, a resident at Mills Meadow, said: “They were so lovely – we all want them to come back again!

“My dad was an RSPCA inspector, so we always had animals when I was growing up – I even remember him building a pond in the back garden to house two seals he was looking after! My favourite visitor of the day was Maggie, the guinea pig. We had guinea pigs when I was a child so I really enjoyed meeting them.”

 

Rebecca Calver, Home Manager at Mills Meadow, said: “Here at Mills Meadow, we’re always planning new activities and experiences to keep residents entertained and put a smile on their faces.

“Animals are a great way of improving relaxation and wellbeing in older people, helping to reduce stress and increase social interaction. The residents loved holding the animals and learning more about these interesting creatures – it prompted everyone to share their own stories and childhood memories of animals they’ve encountered.

“We’d like to say a huge thank you to Our Animal World for such a lovely day and are looking forward to planning our next encounter with some more exotic animals!”

Mills Meadow care home is designed to deliver the very best standards of care, and to enable residents to live active and fulfilled lives. The home offers a range of services including residential care, specialist dementia care and respite care.  

For more information about Mills Meadow contact Home Manager, Rebecca Calver, on 01728 885616, or email rebecca.calver@careuk.com 

For general information please visit, careuk.com/mills-meadow