A “perfect” pony therapy visit for Residents at Salford care home

This May, Colleagues arranged for a therapy pony to visit Residents at Pendleton Court care home, in Salford, having not had a visit since before the pandemic. The activity did not disappoint with everyone in great spirits, memories sparked and smiles all around.

Everyone was super excited to welcome back four-legged friend ‘Mr P’ (which stands for perfect), having remembered that last time he came to Pendleton Court, there were many benefits seen among Residents.

Therapy animals, including ponies, are proven to have several positive effects on both physical and mental health, with studies showing they help alleviate stress, reduce anxiety and improve social isolation too. Pony therapy in particular is especially valuable because ponies have emotional intelligence and often mirror people.

Mr P visited all the communities in the home, and even went up in the lifts, being so used to it and very well-trained. He visited Residents in the communal areas and made his way around bedrooms for Residents who were unable to join in the lounge.

The visit sparked lots of reminiscing among Residents at the home, as they talked about pets and animal encounters they had in the past. Harry Wink, pictured, used to be in the Queen’s Guards and said he remembered his horse was called ‘Diablo’.

Fellow Resident Bill Mellor, said he owned two very large horses of his own, that he regularly used to ride.

Residents were in awe of Mr P, and many commented how amazing of a pony he was and his beautiful coat. Terry Grundy loved it so much, that he came downstairs so he could see Mr P again!

Everyone enjoyed hearing about the pony and his stories from visits around other nursing homes.

Gwen, who lives at Pendleton Court, commented, “What a gorgeous creature!”

Colleague Leanne fell in love with Mr P. She brushed him and said she was overjoyed to see him back after so long.

Wellbeing Coordinator Lesley Moore, commented, “I noticed that the pony visit has a profound effect on some Residents and definitely lifted everyone’s spirits.”

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