A four-legged visitor brought plenty of smiles – and a few happy memories – when he called in to see residents at Inglefield Nursing & Residential Home in Totland.
Cooper the therapy dog spent the afternoon making his way around the home, stopping for cuddles, chin scratches and plenty of attention from residents.
But Cooper’s visit brought more than wagging tails and smiles.
For many residents, spending time with him prompted conversations and stories about much-loved pets they had owned throughout their lives, from childhood dogs to family pets remembered years later.
Charlotte, Home Manager at Inglefield Nursing & Residential Home, said: “Cooper was an absolute star and it was wonderful to see how residents responded to him.
“There’s something incredibly comforting about having an animal come and sit beside you. You could see people immediately reaching out to stroke him and, before long, we were hearing all sorts of stories about the dogs and other pets residents had loved over the years.
“Those conversations are just as special as the visit itself. A familiar feeling or experience can bring back memories and stories we might otherwise never have heard.
“And, of course, Cooper was more than happy to accept all the fuss and chin scratches that came his way!”
Visits such as Cooper’s form part of the varied programme of activities and experiences at Inglefield, which are designed around residents’ interests and enjoyment.
The home regularly looks for opportunities to bring different experiences into the home, as well as creating moments that encourage conversation, connection and, most importantly, enjoyment.
The team is already looking forward to welcoming Cooper back for more cuddles in the future.