Animal therapy has become a much‑loved part of life across Avery Healthcare homes, bringing comfort, joy and connection to residents. Whether it’s a familiar furry friend or a more unusual creature, animals have a remarkable ability to lift spirits and create meaningful moments that stay with people long after the visit ends.
One of the most powerful benefits of animal therapy is its calming effect. Spending time with animals can lower cortisol, the body’s stress hormone, while releasing endorphins that promote relaxation. For residents, this can ease anxiety, lift mood and help them feel more grounded and present. These small but significant moments of peace can make a real difference to emotional well-being.
Animal visits also spark conversation and connection. They encourage residents to chat with one another, share stories about pets they once had and enjoy the sense of community that naturally forms around these encounters. It’s a wonderful way to build rapport not only between residents but also with team members and visiting professionals, creating a warm and inclusive atmosphere throughout the home.
There’s also a strong cognitive element to animal therapy. Animals often trigger memories, sometimes unexpectedly, which can lead to reminiscence, storytelling and emotional engagement. Simple interactions such as brushing, stroking or offering a treat support sequencing, decision‑making and communication. These gentle prompts help residents stay mentally active in a way that feels natural and enjoyable.
Physical benefits also play a role. Activities like walking a dog, reaching out to stroke an alpaca or helping to feed a small animal can support balance, coordination and joint mobility. These movements feel purposeful and rewarding, encouraging residents to stay active without it feeling like exercise.
Across Avery homes, residents have enjoyed meeting an extraordinary variety of animals over the years. Mousehold View has had donkeys, alpacas, guinea pigs, parrots, insects and even a skunk, which have brought excitement and curiosity into the home. These more unusual visitors offer something a little different from the traditional therapy animals, sparking interest and creating memorable experiences for everyone involved.
Mousehold View is preparing for a particularly special visitor. On 13th April, residents will have the chance to meet a meerkat, a unique and delightful addition to the home’s animal therapy programme. This visit promises to bring plenty of smiles and conversation, offering residents something truly out of the ordinary while continuing the home’s commitment to meaningful, enriching experiences.
