Hoot-iful wild friends pay a visit to Chingford care home

Residents at a local care home were greeted by a number of creatures great and small for a memorable afternoon.

Residents at Care UK’s Ivy Grove, on Hatch Lane, invited some unusual visitors through its doors after a range of wild animals joined residents for an afternoon of animal therapy.

Residents were visited by a host of interesting animals brought in by Imperial Bird of Prey Academy, an ethical animal centre. Residents got up close and personal with the animals, which included a barn owl, python, millipede, bullfrog and more unusual creatures like the cute tailless tenrec.

 

Residents were given the chance to handle some of the animals, as well as learn about their characteristics, the environment they live in, and their food preferences.

The most popular animal with residents was the barn owl, as everyone agreed they couldn’t believe how soft the owl was, and how beautiful and detailed its feathers were.

Commenting on the afternoon, Winni Millar, aged 95, a resident at Ivy Grove, said: “Being able to experience meeting all the animals was wonderful, I particularly loved stroking the snake as it felt like silk. I wish I could keep all the animals with me.”

Alexander Bragg, General Manager at Ivy Grove, said: “Interacting with animals has significant benefits, especially for older people and those living with dementia, as being close to animals can help lift a person’s mood and stimulate social interaction. 

“The afternoon proved to be a real success, and it was lovely to hear about the resident's past pets and their fond memories of them – from dogs to cats and snakes, there have certainly been some colourful characters!

“We want to say a big thank you to Imperial Bird of Prey Academy for bringing the animals along, and look forward to welcoming more animals, big or small, soon.”

Designed to enable residents to live active and fulfilled lives, while also promoting independence, Ivy Grove incorporates space for hobby and leisure activities. The layout of the building has been configured to help facilitate the creation of close-knit communities and encourage social interaction among residents.