Foxholes Care Home, Hertfordshire. Sept 2021.

Trio of therapy ponies spend the day at a Hertfordshire Care home to provide comfort and joy to bedbound residents following a challenging 18 months for the social care sector”. Foxholes Care home welcomed Pickles, Romeo and Oliver from Pixie and Pickles Therapy ponies enabling residents and staff to pat, hug and take selfies.

The experience was orchestrated to boost emotional wellbeing. Professionally trained, the ponies were escorted around the residents rooms in a bid to lower anxiety and stress levels, stimulate memory and endorphins and reduce depression. One resident (Margaret) said she loved the session whilst another, Bryan made no effort in hiding his emotions. The ponies allowed people to relax as they accept everyone without judgement.

Neil Gandecha, estates manager at Foxholes said “to see so many beaming smiles light up the room really made this an experience we’ll never forget. The unique experience has proven to be an excellent way to give our residents some joy, whilst also, and importantly, allowing them to have the time and space to address their emotional wellbeing in a supportive environment.

We are well aware of the benefits animal therapy can have on someone’s life. We can’t thank Pixie and Pickles Therapy ponies enough and look forward to welcoming Pickles, Romeo and Oliver back in the near future.