Residents have spent an afternoon horsing around with Molly the Dartmoor pony

Residents from an Akari Care residential home in Wallsend spent the afternoon enjoying the benefits of a pony therapy session.

The pony therapy session involved residents petting and interacting with Molly and Mr P, a Dartmoor Pony and American miniature horse, as well as a talk from their owners about the animals and their care.

Mrs Susan Drew, manager at Charlton Court, said: “We are always trying to think of beneficial activities that are a little bit different for our residents. The pony therapy session was very successful and it was lovely to see the smiles and expressions on our residents’ faces as they petted and talked to the ponies. Everyone at Charlton Court would like to thank K&L Pony Parties and Therapy for a fantastic afternoon. ”

13 year old Molly spent time with residents on the ground floor, while residents who were unable to make it downstairs were able to meet American miniature, Mr P.

The benefits of animals therapy includes providing a calming and therapeutic activity for all kinds of people, including older people.

Interacting with the small horses allowed residents to reminisce about forgotten memories of past pets and animals in general, and was a calming activity for people with dementia who often find it hard to convey their thoughts and feelings.

For more information on animal therapy please visit: www.carehome.co.uk/news/article.cfm/id/1560078/horse-therapy-from-rupert-benefits-sambrook-house-residents