Care home resident paid surprise visit by alpacas

1 August 2022

We sprung a unique surprise on one of our animal-loving residents when they arranged for alpacas Liquorice and Almond to pay her a visit

Rosemary Wray was captivated by the amazing creatures when they first visited the home last year.

Our Companionship team organised for an ‘Animal Garden Party’ with food, drinks and live music for Rosemary and the residents to enjoy, as well as the chance to meet their amazing alpaca guests.

Our Companion Team Leader Karlene Duffy said: “Rosemary has always loved animals and said she would love some more to come to the home.

“We decided to surprise her and Wendy of Alpaca Adventure was more than happy to help and brought along her one-year-old alpacas Liquorice and Almond, who were absolutely gorgeous.

“It was a fantastic afternoon with great food, entertainment and of course our special guests.

Rosemary Wray surprise visit from Alpaca adventure.“Rosemary was bowled over and along with all the residents made a real fuss of these wonderful animals.”

Alpacas originate from South America and are a species of camelid mammal. Their fiber is incredibly insulating and soft and is used to make knitted and woven clothing.

Liquorice and Almond are uncle and nephew and live at the award-winning Alpaca Adventure in Shaftesbury with owner Wendy Williams.

Alpaca Adventure pays regular visits to care homes and BBC Countryfile filmed alpacas from the smallholding visiting residents at outstanding rated Newstone House in 2017.

Rosemary said: ” It was a wonderful afternoon. The animals were so beautiful and gentle natured.

“I’d like to say a big Thank You to the Companions and Wendy for the surprise and for allowing me to share this experience.”