The Aldbury resident thrilled by pony visit  

Our resident Dennis Edwards, a former blacksmith, was visited by Sammy the miniature pony

Our team organised for Sammy the miniature Shetland Palomino therapy pony to visit resident Dennis Edwards.

Our Colten Companion Cara Duroe explained: “Dennis used to work with horses and draws pictures of them all day, every day.

“He loves all animals, but especially horses and gets emotional remembering how he used to talk to them to calm them down before he would shoe them.”

Cara continued: “We wanted to give Dennis the chance to be up close to a pony again so, we contacted Pony N Paws, a local company run by Fiona Guile. Fiona, along with her pony Sammy and Scamp, her therapy dog, visit care homes, schools and events.

“When she brought in Sammy to the lounge Dennis’ whole face lit up. He was over the moon and very emotional and the entire room was deeply moved by what we saw.”

“Dennis said: “Oh I love animals, what a lovely coat he has!”

“He was chatting to Fiona for a long time, asking all about Sammy and telling her how he used to shoe horses.

“He also showed her his drawings which was so sweet.”

Dennis’ fellow resident Patricia Stokes was also captivated by Sammy, as her late husband was a jockey and they were frequently around horses.

Cara said: “Pat had told us she would love to stroke a horse’s mane again, so of course she was absolutely thrilled to meet and pet Sammy.”

Sammy’s therapy companion Scamp, a five-year-old medium sized cock-a-poo also caused a real stir amongst the residents.

Cara added: “The Pony N Paws visit was a great success. Everybody loved Sammy and Scamp and being able to touch and pet them was a very enjoyable sensory experience for them all.

“Our resident Pip said: “He is amazing” twice and just couldn’t stopped feeling his soft coat.

“And Dorothy said: “I love him” as she touched her forehead to his.

“Sammy was so chilled, calm and friendly, allowing all residents and staff to stroke him. Margaret even took his lead and walked him around the lounge!”

Visiting relatives also stopped to stroke and take pictures of the animals.

Cara said: “They were surprised and delighted there was a pony in the home.

“It was a wonderful visit. The smiles on residents’ and staff faces alike were perfect and we all cannot wait for them to visit again.”