Home Local News Therapy Donkeys are mane attraction at Skelmersdale Care Home

Therapy Donkeys are mane attraction at Skelmersdale Care Home

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Therapy donkey, Snowy with Resident Nina Greenwood

Residents at a care home in Skelmersdale have been enjoying animal therapy thanks to a visit from a new equine friend.

Stocks Hall Skelmersdale Care Home welcomed 10 year old trained therapy donkey, Snowy, into the home to give residents and their families the chance to meet and enjoy a multi-sensory experience with the gentle natured animal.

Animal-assisted therapy has been shown to be very beneficial in elderly care, as physical contact with the animals encourages communication and can reduce stress and anxiety and even improve motor skills and self-esteem.

Home Manager, Sue King said “Therapy donkeys have been carefully selected for their superb temperaments and they are exceptionally calm and quiet. They can provide great therapeutic value, especially to those living with advanced Dementia.”

“Donkeys seem to have a special way of knowing just what a person needs. They instinctively know when to approach someone who is a little shy or to hand back if someone needs a little space. They will stand for ages to be groomed and cuddled and will happily be led around.”

“Snowy really lifted everyone’s spirits and is just adorable.  He was even able to visit the bedrooms of people who are severely ill and bed-bound, spreading much joy around the home.”

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