Shetland Pony Visits for Care HOMES, NURSERIES AND SCHOOLS in Nottingham
Cupcake is our delightful miniature pony who happily embarks on visits to Residential/Care Homes as well as visits to schools, pre-schools and nurseries in Nottingham, Leicester and Derby.
Her gentle and affectionate nature resonates deeply with everyone she meets. The residents relish interacting with her kind nature and stroking her soft fur, eliciting smiles and joy all around. Whatever the weather Cupcake arrives with nice clean hooves and is house trained and has never had any ‘accidents’.
Pony therapy involves interactions between individuals and ponies under the guidance of trained professionals, who are fully insured.
These gentle, intelligent creatures have an innate ability to connect with humans, offering emotional support, companionship, and a sense of purpose, particularly for the elderly residents in care homes. Her presence has initiated responses and interaction from residents who have not engaged in other activities.
The impact of pony therapy on the well-being of care home residents is profound. Ponies possess a calming presence and for many living with conditions such as dementia or Alzheimer’s this can trigger memories and evoking feelings of nostalgia and familiarity.
The physical benefits of pony therapy are equally significant. Interacting with ponies often involves gentle activities such as grooming, petting and feeding. These activities promote movement and interaction. For individuals who may be limited in their mobility, the simple act of reaching out to stroke a pony or feed it can promote hand-eye coordination and muscle flexibility.
Beyond the physical and mental advantages, pony therapy also cultivates emotional well-being. Many care home residents experience feelings of loneliness or isolation particularly with bed bound residents, but a friendly pony visit to their rooms can be the highlight of their day.
Moreover, the interactive sessions with ponies often spark conversation and camaraderie among residents. The shared experience of bonding with the ponies becomes a common ground for social interaction, encouraging communication and emotional connections among peers, thus reducing social withdrawal, and promoting a sense of community within the care home.
The success of pony therapy in care homes is not only evident in the visible changes in residents but also in the testimonials of staff, families, and the residents themselves. Caregivers witness remarkable transformations in the demeanour and engagement of residents who participate in pony therapy sessions. Families often express profound gratitude for the visible improvements in their loved ones’ emotional well-being.
Pony therapy in care homes exemplifies the remarkable healing power of animal-assisted therapy. The gentle and nurturing presence of these incredible creatures has the ability to uplift spirits, enhance cognitive functions, improve physical health, and create an environment of emotional support and connection. As care homes continue to explore innovative ways to enrich the lives of their residents, pony therapy stands out as a shining example of a holistic approach to fostering well-being and happiness.
Many homes and hospices have reflected on how, even after she has left, her presence seems to remain as she has uplifted everyone’s spirits.
An hour’s session with two handlers is priced at just £75*
(*within 20 miles of NG12, additional travel costs may be added outside this radius).
Are you Interested in A Shetland Pony Therapy Session For Your Care home?
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