Adorable alpacas brought smiles for residents of a care home in Oswaldtwistle.
Pendlebrook Care Home residents enjoyed a trip to Woodend Alpacas in Dunsop Bridge, where they met a variety of friendly animals, including baby Alpaca, Felix, and 17 other alpacas, as well as a Shetland pony called Tommy.
The residents were thrilled to have the opportunity to interact with the animals, and many of them took the chance to feed and stroke the alpacas with the friendly baby Felix being a particular hit with the residents.
The residents learned about the different breeds, their unique characteristics and handled the alpacas fleeces which had been sheared ready for making into wool.
In addition to meeting the animals, the residents also enjoyed coffee and homemade cakes in the farm's tearoom. It was a wonderful opportunity for the residents to socialise and enjoy a day out in the countryside.
Claire Rothwell, activities coordinator at Pendlebrook Care Home said it was a wonderful day out in the countryside.
She said: "The residents had a fantastic time at Woodend Alpacas. It was so lovely to see them interacting with the animals and having so much fun. The visit was a real boost for everyone involved."
Research has shown that spending time with animals can have a number of benefits for older adults, including reducing stress, improving mood, and promoting social interaction.
One resident, Joan Meredith, 90, said: "I had such a wonderful time at Woodend Alpacas.
"The alpacas were so friendly and gentle, and I loved feeding and stroking them. It was also lovely to have coffee and cake in the tearoom. It was a perfect day out.
Another resident, Richard Blakley, 96, said: "I really enjoyed meeting the alpacas and Tommy the Shetland pony. They were all so cute and friendly. I'm so glad I had the opportunity to go on this trip."
The trip to Woodend Alpacas is just one of many activities that Pendlebrook Care Home organises for its residents.
The home offers a variety of activities and outings to help residents stay active and engaged, and to promote social interaction.
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