Visit from miniature ponies lifts spirits at care home

A very special visit from two miniature ponies put a smile on the faces of care home residents.

Residents at Copper Beech Bupa Care Home were treated to a visit from Buddelia and Caramel from South Brockwells Farm, which is owned by a resident’s son.

Staff and residents at the Uckfield care home were able to groom, pet and talk to the animals from the comfort of their armchairs.

Residents were delighted to receive their visitors (Image: Copper Beech Bupa Care Home)

Carers said it was a day filled with laughter, warmth and a sense of companionship.

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Activities coordinator Carole Sandells, who helped organise the visit, said: "Our residents were absolutely in awe of Buddelia and Caramel, and they haven’t stopped talking about them.

“During the visit, some of our residents had the opportunity to chat and reminisce about childhood memories of being around ponies. It was a wonderful experience and we're thrilled to have created such beautiful memories for our residents."

Residents stroked and groom ed the ponies (Image: Copper Beech Bupa Care Home)

South Brockwells Farm is a family run business that provides pet therapy for the community and underprivileged children.

June Wells, a resident at Copper Beech, said: “I was really pleased to inform Carole about my son’s farm, South Brockwells. My granddaughter Lucy loved bringing her Shetland ponies to show everyone.”

Residents petting one of the ponies (Image: Copper Beech Bupa Care Home)

Stroking and interacting with animals such as horses, dogs and cats releases endorphins , which have a calming effect and reduce stress.

Hasib Khan, home manager at Copper Beech, said: "Animal therapy is so beneficial to calm a mood, express emotion and to feel relaxed – we could visibly see the difference with everyone in the room – so many smiling faces with residents wanting to stroke and make a fuss of the ponies.

“Thank you so much to Arron and Lucy from South Brockwells Farm in Little Horsted for giving up their time to come and visit us today.”