A FOUR-LEGGED creature made a surprise visit to a Shinfield care home.
Charlie the donkey made an appearance at Care UK’s Parsons Grange, Westall Street, much to the amazement of both residents and staff.
The afternoon kicked off with a tour around the home and its grounds, before the donkey’s handler, Kelly Baker of Kelly’s Donkeys, delivered a talk in which she discussed how the animals are cared for.
One animal-loving resident, Florrie Morris, said: “This experience has been wonderful, I will remember this day for the rest of my life.”
Charlie visited every resident and was treated to fruit and cuddles.
Rozina Ali, home manager at Parsons Grange, said: “We love welcoming any type of furry friend into our home. Animal therapy has an incredibly positive effect on mental wellbeing, as it can be calming and help to prompt conversations. We’re thrilled that we had a friendly animal visit our home.
“It wasn’t just the residents who enjoyed Charlie’s visit, members of the Care UK team loved taking him for a walk around the home to meet everyone as well as some cuddles and petting. He was well and truly spoiled by everyone he came into contact with.”
The home organises regular leisure and hobby activities, as well as a cafe, hair salon, bar and a cinema for residents to enjoy.
