Whitstable care home residents join ‘cuddle club’

A care home in Whitstable surprised residents with a special visit from some four-legged friends.

Care UK’s Harrier Lodge, on Thanet Way, welcomed Red Lions Canine Cuddle Club for an afternoon of cuddles and games.  

Residents enjoyed playing ball with the special visitors in the home’s lounge and learning about each dog’s background, favourite places for walkies, and their different food preferences. 

The dogs were brought into the home by The Cuddle Club, which offers dog therapy for people of all ages across Kent.  

Commenting on the paw-some visit, resident Eraine, said: “I loved the dog – he kept kissing my face which reminded me of my own dog.”   

Sadie Porteous, Home Manager at Harrier Lodge, said: “This was such a ‘paws-itive’ experience for everyone at Harrier Lodge. It was wonderful to see the smiles on resident’s faces as the dogs put their best paw forward and strutted into the lounge. 

“Being in the company of animals has proven therapeutic benefits for older people, particularly for those living with dementia, as it can reduce anxiety, release calming endorphins, and decrease feelings of loneliness. You could see from the residents’ reactions just how engaged they were when given the opportunity to be in the company of their four-legged friends. 

“We look forward to welcoming pets of all shapes and sizes in the future as they certainly bring a lot of joy and comfort to everyone’s hearts at Harrier Lodge.” 

Harrier Lodge is a purpose-built care home which has been designed to enable residents to live active and fulfilled lives, while also promoting independence. The home provides full-time residential, nursing and specialist dementia care for up to 65 older people in Whitstable, and incorporates space for hobby and leisure activities, including its own cinema, hairdressing salon and café.