By Izzy Hawksworth via SWNS
A group of care home residents were left shocked after they had a surprise visit – from two alpacas.
Elderly people who live at the Bruce Lodge care home in Stockport, Gtr Manchester,. were visited by animals Teddy and Carlos for a pet therapy session.
Pet therapy uses animals as a form of companionship and treatment, and it’s said it can improve an older person’s emotional, social, or cognitive abilities.
The care home said the alpacas were known for their gentle nature and enjoy the company of humans.
But the residents were left shocked by the surprise visit as “things like this just don’t happen.”
Care home resident Barbara, 87, said: “I can’t believe what I’m seeing, I can’t believe he’s in front of me.
“Things like this just don’t happen.”
Marion, who also lives at the home, described the animals as ‘lovely’ but said she thought they were ‘trying to talk to her.’
The 91-year-old said: “They were lovely and obedient.
“It was like they were trying to talk to me – but they’d have to be good to out-talk me.”
Care home resident Kath, 86, added: “I liked it a lot, and I usually don’t like things.”
Teddy and Carlos traveled from Knightley Alpaca Trekking in Staffordshire for the surprise visit.
Seb Williams, the activity and lifestyle facilitator at Bruce Lodge, said the resident’s smiles when they saw the animals ‘was amazing.’
He said “Our residents were shocked when the alpacas walked in – but they loved it.
“Everyone’s smiles were amazing.
“It was so much fun – especially seeing the alpacas go upstairs in the lift.”
