Pets make wonderful companions for individuals, couples, and even families, but they can be especially meaningful to folks living in senior homes. This phase of life can be lonely and challenging for some seniors, but visits from animals like therapy dogs, rabbits, or even Shetland ponies can turn their whole day around.
No one understands this better than George and Betty from Cumbernauld Care in the UK. On June 25, they and their neighbors were pleasantly surprised by a visit from adorable therapy ponies, and the outcome was just as heartwarming as you would expect.
Wait until you see the smiles on their faces! These senior home residents never expected to be ‘running with Shetland ponies‘ on a random weekday, but life is full of wonderful surprises!
@eachothercareuk George and Betty loved whizzing up and down the hallway. 🥰 📍 Cumbernauld Care #eachothercare #carehomesuk
♬ Almost forgot that this was the whole point – Take my Hand Instrumental – AntonioVivald
This is the sweetest thing on the Internet today! George, Betty, and the man running with them all have the biggest smiles on their faces. Meanwhile, the precious miniature horse is having a blast trotting up and down the hallway.
Related: Golden Retriever Puppies’ Heartwarming Visit to Senior Center Couldn’t Be More Perfect
“Brilliant!” one commenter began. “Is the horse wearing shoes?” He sure is! This probably prevents his hooves from damaging indoor floors, but their cuteness factor is a welcome bonus. I can only imagine how much the residents loved their fashionable new friend!
Therapy Ponies in Senior Homes
Even though therapy dogs are a popular choice for wholesome animal visits, horses and miniature horses can also be wonderful therapy animals. In fact, dogs and miniature horses are the only species that can become their humans’ official service animals, too!
Mini ponies commonly visit hospitals and senior homes like this one, though they don’t have to work very hard to spread joy. Another commenter’s story has me laughing out loud!
“I recall when ponies visited our home, we announced the visit to a lady in her room with dementia. The pony peered at her, and she asked ‘Is it my sister?'”
LOL! These wholesome interactions leave everyone smiling from ear to ear, and it’s safe to say it’s not the last time we’ll see such a sweet visit at a senior home.
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