ANIMAL THERAPY at LAUDER LODGE
Residents at an Edinburgh care home have experienced an afternoon of hands-on fun as a host of weird and wonderful animals popped in to visit.
The team at Care UK’s Lauder Lodge, on Wakefield Avenue in Portobello, invited a variety of creatures to visit the home to meet residents for an interactive afternoon of animal therapy.
Residents were able to observe, hold and stroke a gerbil, bearded dragon, snail and tortoise brought in by ZooLab, the UK’s leading ethical animal encounter provider.
They learned interesting facts about each of the animals, including their habitats and favourite foods, while residents who dared were able to experience handling some of them.
Resident Betty Fisher, age 94, said: “It’s wonderful to see the animals up close and it’s also a great experience to learn about them and even hold them.”
Anees Riaz, Home Manager at Lauder Lodge, added: “We are always looking to plan interesting and exciting activities for residents. So many have an interest in wildlife and nature, so we knew we had to invite ZooLab for an afternoon of animal therapy.
“Whether big or small, spending time with animals can be incredibly beneficial for older people, as being around them can instantly help to lift a person’s mood and encourage social interaction, especially for those living with dementia. Animal therapy sessions are always met with such a positive reaction from the residents – they were fascinated by the reptiles, especially the tortoise!
“Every visit brings its share of surprises, and we never know which animal will come through the door. We’re all looking forward to welcoming the ZooLab team again very soon.”
Lauder Lodge is a state-of-the-art care home that provides full-time residential, nursing and dementia care.
Designed to enable residents to lead enjoyable and fulfilling lives, it has its own cinema room, pub and hair and beauty salon, and there is plenty of space – both indoors and out – for relaxation and recreation.
To find out more about Lauder Lodge, please contact Customer Relations Manager Chelsea Smith at chelsea.smith@careuk.com, call 0131 357 1760 or visit