Residents at a Milford care home near Stafford have been treated to a visit from a group of South American mammals – which made themselves at home much to the delight of the hosts.
Dora Rose, part of the Macc Care Group, recently welcomed the woolly wonders from local Alpaca keeper, Knightley Alpaca Trekking, which provided an exciting new experience for some residents and a much-anticipated return visit for others.
Residents were thrilled to be able to stroke and interact with the alpacas – with some even getting affectionate cuddles from the gentle members of the camel family.
Animal interactions are known to have a positive effect on care home residents, increasing the ‘happy hormones’ of oxytocin, dopamine and serotonin, which are released by the brain while decreasing cortisol. Residents instantly feel better while interacting, even without the emotional aspects of being with the animal. An animal’s presence can also have a calming effect, which can help to relieve anxiety and enhance general cardiovascular health.
The immersive visit forms part of a broad spectrum of activities provided by the team at Dora Rose. Fun is always high on the agenda with a unique range of events planned, giving residents a new lease of life.
Following the visit, Dora Rose Home Manager, Emma Thorley, said: “It was so heartwarming to see the joy on residents’ faces when meeting the alpacas. They were perfect guests, being gentle and calming and even popping up to visit the residents who remained in their rooms. I think it made for a memorable experience for us all and I’m incredibly proud that my team organised this for all to enjoy. We pride ourselves on prioritising individual welfare and personal happiness, and our activities form a huge part of this. We’re incredibly grateful to Knightley Alpaca Trekking for their visit and hope that they will come back to see us soon.”
Dora Rose is a bespoke, luxury care home, beautifully located in the semi-rural village of Milford in Staffordshire and set right on the very edge of Cannock Chase.
Designed to an exceptionally high standard, Dora Rose’s environment is truly special. Accommodating up to 71 people, the home draws residents from a very local community – individuals who wish to remain within their locality and this creates a wonderfully tight-knit community-feel.
For more information on Dora Rose, visit https://macccare.com/our-homes/dora-rose/.
