It’s well known that interaction with friendly animals has a positive impact on patients in mental health. It’s been known to uplift their spirits, reduce stress and even encourage communication.
Following a very successful one off visit last summer from the Therapy Ponies to Royal Edinburgh Hospital (REH), it was clear that it would be worth becoming a more regular event.
With the support of the Occupational Therapy Department, Edinburgh and Lothian’s Health Foundation, Therapy Ponies Scotland, Nursing team, Infection Control, Fire Officers, and Security we were able to make this happen!
During their visits the Therapy Ponies have been great at both calming and stimulating patients.
Patients, staff and carers have been able to share and engage in the moment together, which was especially beneficial for those who have limited verbal communication and find structured activity difficult. The ponies had a number of patients up and walking (as well as talking) promoting a real sense of community and fun.
Patients were delighted to have the ponies – one remarked “it has been the best day of my life” (and has repeated this since), another said they “could cry with happiness”.
The therapy ponies Wilson and Herbie and their handlers, Elaine and John, ensured everyone had enough time to get the most from the visit – we couldn’t rate them more highly!
NHS Lothian
Pics: Therapies Ponies Scotland